Former Latvia PM approved for top role in Europe

The European Parliament has approved former Latvian Prime Minister Valdis Dombrovskis as vice president of the European Commission.

Latvian MEP Dombrovskis, who stepped down as Prime Minister last year following the collapse of a supermarket roof in Latvia, would take charge of he euro and social dialog as part of his new role.

A total of 73 MEP's voted for Dombrovskis whilst 25 voted against, four abstained.

During the three-hour hearing, Dombrovskis answered questions about the Latvian government's measures to mitigate the consequences caused by the economic crisis.

"One of the main tasks on the European Union's agenda is the facilitation of the economic growth of the eurozone and the entire EU economic, which will ensure beneficial environment for investment and the creation of new jobs," Dombrovskis said.

"The EU must be capable of dispelling EU citizens' concerns about social and economic inequality. In order to make sure that all European citizens feel the results of the economic growth, it is necessary to ensure more effective coordination of economic and social policies by involving social partners in the decision-making process both on the EU and national levels."

Dombrovskis' aide Rita Voine informed LETA that "State of Europe" - a high-level discussion on economic, political, and social situation in Europe that is taking place in Brussels today, will mark the define priorities and problems to be solved in the coming five years in response to globalization challenges and meant to get Europe's economy back on its feet."

At the meeting, Dombrovskis' position will be that the main priority should be strong and competitive EU, which can be achieved by attracting investment and creating new jobs.

The EP will vote on the new Commission's makeup on October 22.