Socialist presides over Europe's regions 

French Socialist Michel Delebarre is the new President of the EU consultative body, the Committee of the Regions.
 
Michel Delebarre,  the Mayor of Dunkerque, and a member of the French National Assembly, will lead the body that provides a voice for regional and local authorities in the European Union. 
 
His replacement as Leader of the Socialist Group in the Committee of the Regions is Italian Socialist, Mercedes Bresso, President of the Piedmont Region.
 
Poul Nyrup Rasmussen, President of the Party of European Socialists said "I congratulate Michel Delebarre on his election." 
 
"I fully support his view that the the EU's 'Lisbon strategy', aimed at making Europe's economy more competitive, should be a priority for the Committee of the Regions. It is a priority for all socialists. Europe's cities and regions are a key partner not only in the use of EU funds but also in creating the jobs and economic growth of tomorrow."     
 
He added "I am delighted that Mercedes Bresso has been elected to lead the Socialist Group in the Committee of the Regions. Europe needs more women in leadership positions."
 
More on Michel Delebarre's election and on Mercedes Bresso's appointment.