The Portuguese government has officially proposed Maria Luís Albuquerque, a former finance minister, as its candidate for the European Union commissioner position. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro made the announcement on Wednesday, highlighting Albuquerque’s extensive experience and qualifications for the role.

Announcement and Background

Prime Minister Luís Montenegro announced the nomination of Maria Luís Albuquerque at the official residence in São Bento. The announcement was made without allowing press questions, but Montenegro emphasized that the decision had the full support of the government. He praised Albuquerque’s credentials, noting her tenure as finance minister during a critical period when Portugal was under the EU’s ‘troika’ bailout system.

“Given her profile and my direct and personal knowledge of her abilities, I know that she will honor Portugal,” Montenegro stated.

Albuquerque’s Career Highlights

Maria Luís Albuquerque has had a distinguished career in both politics and finance. She succeeded Vítor Gaspar as finance minister in July 2013 and served until the end of the government led by former Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho. During her tenure, she played a crucial role in navigating Portugal through its financial crisis.

• Finance Minister (2013-2015): Managed Portugal’s finances during the EU’s ‘troika’ bailout.
• Vice-President of PSD: Served under Coelho’s leadership.
• PSD Candidate: Headed the PSD’s list for the Setúbal Assembly in 2011 and 2015.
• Current Roles: Member of the PSD National Council and the supervisory board of Morgan Stanley’s European subsidiary.

Gender Representation in the European Commission

Albuquerque’s nomination adds to the growing number of women being proposed for positions in the new European Commission. So far, 17 EU countries have proposed male commissioners, while Albuquerque is the seventh woman to be nominated. At the time of writing, Belgium, Italy, and Bulgaria have yet to propose their candidates before the deadline of Friday, August 31.