On Monday 11 March, German MP Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann was nominated by the German Free Democratic Party (FDP) to become the lead candidate for the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) party at the European elections in June.
Her appointment follows the announcement of Sandro Gozi’s nomination as lead candidate for the European Democratic Party (EDP) (see EUROPE 13367/4). That leaves only the Renaissance party, which has yet to decide on its candidate, thus completing the trio who will lead the election campaign for Renew Europe.
In a press release, the ALDE party said that Ms Strack-Zimmermann “has a strong and suitable profile that is needed to convey our liberal message in the European campaign”.
It also highlights her significant experience in defence and security issues as Chair of the Bundestag’s Defence Committee, “which reinforces our liberal commitment to the security of our continent and support for Ukraine at all costs”.
The party also praises her experience as mayor of Düsseldorf, her home town, and her track record in supporting women’s rights.
A formal voting procedure will take place on 20 March at the ALDE party’s extraordinary congress, followed by the launch of Renew Europe platform’s election campaign on the same day. (Original version in French by Pauline Denys)