Belgium edges closer to recognising Palestine
Belgium signals a shift towards recognising Palestine. Interior minister Bernard Quintin has backed Macron’s two-state solution, aligning MR with coalition partners amid ongoing Gaza conflict.
Belgian interior minister Bernard Quintin has expressed support for French president Emmanuel Macron’s two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, marking a potential shift within the liberal MR party. Speaking on Canvas’s De Afspraak op Vrijdag, Quintin said that recognising Palestine is essential. However, he also stressed that conditions such as clear borders and the removal of Hamas from Gaza should be met.
The statement is significant. MR has previously opposed Palestinian recognition within the federal coalition. However, Quintin’s remarks suggest the party may now align with other coalition partners, including N-VA, which recently backed Macron’s initiative.
Quintin confirmed that the federal government is working towards a unified position despite lingering concerns over the feasibility of Macron’s plan, particularly regarding Arab recognition of Israel and Germany’s stance. The government aims to finalise a resolution by the end of May.
The EU is also reviewing its trade ties with Israel amid growing frustration over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Foreign ministers prepare for formal talks later this month.
Interior minister Bernard Quintin © BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND