Timmermans in Brussels for EU job interview

Minister Frans Timmermans of Foreign Affairs has an appointment with Jean-Claude Juncker, the new president of the European Commission, in Brussels today. The PvdA Minister will be interviewing for the position of European Commissioner, a top function, and may become Juncker's second man, the NOS reports. Juncker will be interviewing candidates for positions within his team this week, and could then present the appointed candidates next week. Sources in The Hague tell the NOS that Timmermans could be going for the position of first vice-president, possible as Commissioner on Economic Affairs or Trade. The Netherlands hopes that Timmermans will help the country secure a big portfolio. Timmermans is replacing Finance Minister Jeroen Dijsselbloem as key candidate. The Dutch government was eyeing the position of Commissioner for Economic and Monetary Affairs for Dijsselbloem, but it seems this position will be filled by French ex-Minister Moscovici. Minister Ploumen for Development Co-operation has also been put forward as possible candidate for a high position in the EU. Now, it could be that Ploumen will replace Timmermans as Minister of Foreign Affairs, if Timmermans goes to Brussels. It seems that Timmermans' replacement is more likely to be Bert Koenders, an ex-PvdA Minister of Developmen Co-operation in the Cabinet of Balkenende. Koenders is currently head of the UN peacekeeping force in Mali.