Poland's Sikorski confirmed as parliament speaker after stepping down as foreign minister
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Poland's recently resigned foreign minister, Radek Sikorski, has been confirmed as the country's new speaker of parliament.
With his move Sikorski loses a position with international prominence, but gains one with significant influence over domestic affairs. The speaker helps forge coalitions and negotiate policy compromises.
Sikorski stepped down as foreign minister after a government reshuffle prompted by Prime Minister Donald Tusk being chosen to head the European Council.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Lawmakers voted 233-143 Wednesday to confirm Sikorski as speaker. He represents the governing center-right Civic Platform party.
Sikorski has played a major role supporting Ukraine's pro-Western reforms and closer integration with the European Union. He was replaced by Grzegorz Schetyna, a former interior minister and most recently head of the parliamentary commission for foreign affairs.
With his move Sikorski loses a position with international prominence, but gains one with significant influence over domestic affairs. The speaker helps forge coalitions and negotiate policy compromises.