15/05/2023 (Agence Europe) – Mariya Gabriel, former European Commissioner for Innovation, Culture, Research, Education and Youth, handed in her resignation to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday 15 May. Nominated by her party (Gerb) as a candidate for Prime Minister, she has officially received the institutional mandate from the President of the Republic of Bulgaria, Roumen Radev, to try to form a government (see EUROPE 13179/29). Ms von der Leyen accepted her resignation while acknowledging “her great contribution” to the College. While a replacement is sought, Vice-President Margarítis Schinás will be responsible for education, culture and sport, while Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager will be in charge of research and innovation. Read Ms von der Leyen’s statement: https://aeur.eu/f/6w8 (HS)