DUBLIN: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to Poland on January 9 has been delayed.
Von der Leyen has been diagnosed with severe pneumonia, prompting the cancellation of her public engagements.
The postponement was confirmed by the European Commission‘s chief spokesperson, Paula Pinho, during a briefing on Monday.
Pinho stated that von der Leyen will not resume activities until mid-January, pending her recovery.
Health Update and Cancellation of External Engagements
According to the spokesperson, von der Leyen has canceled all external engagements for the first half of January.
She is expected to return to her duties by mid-January if her recovery proceeds as hoped.
Von der Leyen’s scheduled visit to Poland, which began holding the EU presidency in January, will be rescheduled.
The exact date for the rescheduled visit has not yet been determined, but will be announced soon.
Continuous Communication Despite Illness
Despite the illness, von der Leyen continues to stay in contact with her team on daily matters.
She recently had a phone conversation with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, ahead of Meloni’s US trip.
When asked about a possible temporary replacement, Pinho indicated a decision would depend on von der Leyen’s recovery.
Should von der Leyen’s absence extend, a temporary appointment may be made, depending on her health status.
Re-elected for a Second Term
Von der Leyen was re-elected for her second term on December 1, following the European Parliament elections.
Her tradition includes visiting the country holding the EU presidency, but health concerns have delayed her trip.
The Commission promised to provide updates regarding any changes to von der Leyen’s schedule in the coming days.
In the meantime, the Commission continues with its regular duties, despite her temporary absence.