Solano Set To Become First EU Foreign Minister

European Union leaders will on Tuesday try and pave the way for Javier Solana to become the EU's foreign minister once the constitution is in place. Solana, who is currently the EU's high representative for foreign policy, is expected to have his position renewed by member states at an extraordinary summit Tuesday to nominate the next Commission President. However, plans are underway to make a declaration to suggest that once the Constitution is in place - thought to be in 2007 assuming all 25 states ratify the text - Mr Solana will automatically become Europe's foreign minister. "These arrangements are to be discussed," a diplomatic source told the EUobserver. As foreign minister, the Spaniard will be vice-president of the European Commission, will be backed up by his own diplomatic service and will conduct the EU's foreign policy. (EUobserver.com)