22/01/2010 (Agence Europe) - It has come as no surprise that José Manuel Barroso has confirmed that the portfolio on humanitarian aid will be going to the new Bulgarian commissioner-designate, Kristalina Georgieva (EUROPE 10061). After his first meeting with Georgieva, on Thursday 21 January in Brussels, Barroso said that the current vice-president of the World Bank possessed the ability and international experience necessary to become an “excellent” commissioner. As agreed, Ms Georgieva's hearing before the development committee of the EP will be on 3 February. The EP's vote on the whole of the Barroso II Commission is scheduled for 9 February. (H.B./transl.jl)