DutchNews.nl - New speculation about Balkenende EU role

There is mounting speculation that prime minister Jan Peter Balkenende will be nominated for the job of first EU president, with a leading EU news site stating he has the support of German chancellor Angela Merkel.

Balkenende is engaged in a 'very subtle' lobbying campaign which is being staged from the Hague, website Euractiv.com said, quoting a well-positioned source.

The source, who did not wish to be named, believes that Balkenende will have a high-profile backer in re-elected German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

'Angela Merkel is very close to the Dutch PM,' the source told the website. 'Personally and politically, they see eye to eye and they're both the same style of no-nonsense, low-key politicians.'

This means Merkel could push Balkenende as a viable compromise candidate and an alternative to former British prime minister Tony Blair.

Earlier this month, Balkenende dismissed reports that he is poised to take up the high-powered job as 'rubbish' but did not categorically rule out a move to Brussels.

The Lisbon treaty on EU reform includes the establishment of a permanent president - unlike the current rotating presidency. Balkenende's name is being touted in Brussels as a strong candidate, the Financieele Dagblad said at the time. An appointment is likely to be made early next year.

Balkenende told MPs he wanted to see out his current premiership. The Netherlands will hold a general election in 2011

I think the question whether we should replace a war criminal candidate for an excellent European candidate must be the biggest no brainer this century

By Marek Leszczynski | September 29, 2009 5:16 PM

Mr. Balkenende,I suggest come out with with the statement of non discrimination if this man wants the position. It is within the guidlines of the E.U. and to date this man has not fully stated his position. Here in Holland we give money to Christian school who discriminate. Where does Prime Minister Balkenende, stand on this issue?

By M Stuart | September 30, 2009 7:26 AM

Prime Minister Balkenende, what an honest witty, charismatic & God fearing chap, we will surely miss him.

I'm sure we would all be better off if he takes a job in China. There are no coffee-shops in China...

By stevie | October 1, 2009 9:33 PM

Shouldn't he first "convert" to official Roman Catholicism, just like Tony Blair?

By Geus | November 17, 2009 6:13 AM