Brussels, 29 August 2023 (dpa/MIA) - Dutchman Wopke Hoekstra is set to become the new European Commissioner for climate after an interview with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday.

"Mr Hoekstra showed strong motivation for the post and great commitment to the European Union," Von der Leyen wrote in a statement.

The commission president is going to propose Hoekstra for the post to capitals and the European Parliament, she wrote.

The 47-year-old has served since 2022 as Dutch foreign minister and deputy prime minister and has previously been minister of finance.

"His governmental experience will be a strong asset in particular for Europe's climate diplomacy in the run-up to COP28 and for climate finance, as well as for the implementation of climate-related legislative instruments," Von der Leyen wrote.

In the interview, Hoekstra emphasized his commitment to pursuing ambitious climate policies and maintaining a social balance in working towards climate neutrality, she added.

Hoekstra was nominated by the Dutch government last week, after EU Commission Vice-President Frans Timmermans resigned to run in the upcoming national elections in the Netherlands.

Timmermans has led the commission's climate efforts since 2019. Hoekstra is set to work on climate policies under the supervision of Commission Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič.