Crisis in EU Finishes

In a statement he made in Rome, Buttiglione said, "I am ready to retreat in order to open the way in the commission for Barroso’s presidency." Buttiglione thanked Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi for his support and said he would continue with his duties as minister of foreign relations with the European Parliament (EP).

To replace Buttiglione, Berlusconi will likely nominate Education Minister Moratti or Foreign Minister Frattini to the commission. Barroso hopes his commission will be ready by November 17th.