ROME, Oct. 10, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mario Monti has agreed to serve as Chairman of the Council for the Future of Europe (CFE), a non-partisan, policy and advocacy group, working on constructive political solutions for Europe.
The CFE, which is organized by the Berggruen Institute on Governance, is composed of leaders from across Europe including Gerhard Schröder, Felipe González, Tony Blair, Romano Prodi, Jacques Delors, Guy Verhofstadt, Doris Leuthard, Otmar Issing, Niall Ferguson and Nouriel Roubini, among others. The Council has built its reputation advocating for solutions to youth unemployment, empowerment of financial institutions, and a stronger political union.
Monti joined the Council in 2011 at the invitation of Nicolas Berggruen, the founder of the Berggruen Institute on Governance and original Chairman of the Council. He remained in close contact with the Council throughout his tenure as Prime Minister of Italy, a role he was appointed to in November 2011 by President Giorgio Napolitano in the midst of Italy's economic and financial crisis.
"We are extremely pleased that Mario has agreed to chair the Council," said Nicolas Berggruen. "His breadth of experience and distinguished reputation will no doubt enhance the impact we can have on issues of importance to the future of the continent. With his leadership, we intend to draw into this action-oriented debate more diverse and younger voices, including stakeholders who often feel extraneous to the process of European integration or frustrated by its outcomes."
Prior to courageously undertaking the leadership of Italy during its hour of need, Monti had a direct role in the governance of the EU, first as Commissioner for the Internal Market, Financial Services and Tax Policy (1995-99), then as Commissioner for Competition (1999-2004). He is currently President of Bocconi University and a Senator for life.