EIB appoints Ben Knapen as Brussels Representative

14-2-2013 — /europawire.eu/ — The European Investment Bank has appointed Ben Knapen to a new role as the bank’s Brussels Representative to strengthen engagement with institutional and political partners. Ben Knapen’s previous ministerial experience covering foreign affairs, Europe and development policy will make a significant contribution to reinforcing the effective engagement of the European Investment Bank, as Europe’s long-term lending institution.

“The EIB is delighted to have Ben Knapen join as Head of its Brussels Office and Representative to the EU institutions. Ben Knapen brings a great experience of European politics and a network within the EU institutions to his new role and will make valuable contributions to our cooperation with EU institutions. His past experience of European and global economic and political affairs, and his previous role as a leading journalist will help reinvigorate the contribution of Europe’s long-term lending institution to addressing investment gaps across Europe and beyond. This appointment reflects the increased commitment of the bank following the recent decision to significantly increase lending activity supported unanimously by EU Member states. My colleagues and I look forward to working closely with Ben in this new role.” said European Investment Bank President Werner Hoyer.

“I am honoured to be able to have the opportunity to contribute to the European Investment Bank’s pivotal role in ensuring that long-term investment creates innovation, jobs and supports growth in Europe and beyond. The EIB can build on its strong reputation and reinforce cooperation with the other EU institutions, Member states, European partners, business groups and key stakeholders. I look forward to working with my new colleagues to make this possible.” said Ben Knapen.

Prior to joining the European Investment Bank Ben Knapen was State Secretary for Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of the Netherlands responsible for European cooperation and international development, and a member of the Dutch Scientific Council for Government Policy and university professor. Ben was also foreign correspondent in Europe and South-East Asia, foreign editor and Editor in Chief of NRC Handelsblad, Corporate Communications Director of Philips and board member of a publishing company.

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Richard Willis
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+352 621 55 57 58
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