Belgian PM outlines foreign policy vision during meeting with diplomatic corps
On Wednesday, Belgian prime minister Bart De Wever laid out his government's foreign policy vision to the country's diplomatic corps in Brussels. In his speech, De Wever stressed the urgency of international cooperation in response to a rapidly changing global landscape.
Conflicts, economic instability, and rising protectionism challenge Europe and the world, De Wever told diplomats on Thursday. First and foremost, he condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as a direct attack on European values and confirmed Belgium’s unwavering support for Kyiv.
But conflicts are not confined to Europe, De Wever said. He addressed the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, alongside ongoing conflicts in Sudan, Congo, and Myanmar. Beyond war zones, organised crime and irregular migration are additional major threats to European stability.
On the economic front, the prime minister warned against protectionism and argued that free and fair trade is the only sustainable route to innovation and prosperity. He criticised current inefficiencies in the European single market, warning that without reform and deeper integration, Europe risks long-term economic decline.
Concrete action
In response, Belgium is taking concrete action, De Wever said. The federal government has increased defence spending to meet NATO’s 2 per cent GDP target and is pushing for better coordination of defence resources within the EU. The Belgian prime minister called on allies to continue strengthening Europe’s collective security capabilities.
De Wever also detailed his government's “MAKE 2030” plan to revitalise Belgian industry. It focuses on reducing regulation, establishing a healthy labour market and increasing competitiveness. The goal is to halt Belgium's industrial decline and position the country as a competitive player in global markets.
"Belgium is open for business, but closed for crime"
De Wever concluded by reiterating that Belgium is “open for business, but closed for crime.” The government's goal, he said, is to put more people to work and attract investment, while cracking down on organised crime and terrorism.
To achieve these aims, Belgian diplomats will need to forge strong partnerships around the world. That is why the country is launching the Sablon Diplomatic Circle in Brussels - an initiative designed to connect diplomatic representatives from across the globe.
© BELGA PHOTO JAMES ARTHUR GEKIERE
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