Political Tensions Resurface in Brussels Coalition Talks
Just one day after new hopes emerged of unblocking the Brussels government talks, the first signs of trouble are already appearing.
On Sunday, the liberal party MR announced a breakthrough deal with PS (socialists) and N-VA (Flemish nationalists) to resume coalition talks involving six parties. The arrangement, where MR relinquishes a state secretary position to an independent figure approved by N-VA, aimed to resolve months of political paralysis. However, on Monday, it became evident that the so-called ‘wonder solution’ may not be as robust as initially thought, reports 24brussels.
Disagreements have surfaced between PS and N-VA regarding critical elements of the agreement. N-VA is adamant about having representation at the negotiation table, while PS firmly rejects any N-VA involvement in the discussions.
Cieltje Van Achter from N-VA emphasized during a television interview that her party expects to select the state secretary and influence the coalition program. “You can’t expect us to implement a deal we weren’t allowed to help shape,” she stated.
Parties such as Les Engagés and Groen attempted to downplay the growing tensions, yet acknowledged differing interpretations of the agreement. This includes not only the stance on N-VA but also aspects related to the process and timing. Yvan Verougstraete from Les Engagés noted that it would require “a bit more time to get everyone on the same page.” His colleague, Christophe De Beukelaer, also expressed skepticism about reaching a full agreement by the 21st of July.
