Flemish government reaches deal after weeks of deadlock

The Flemish government has reached an agreement on three key issues after weeks of difficult negotiations.

Late on Monday evening, ministers struck a deal covering the regional budget, energy measures and a plan for drinking water. The breakthrough followed hours of talks and several earlier failed attempts.

Details of the agreement remain limited. The government is expected to provide further information at a press conference on Tuesday morning.

The deal allows the coalition, led by minister-president Matthias Diependaele, to move forward after tensions between parties had stalled decision-making. Disagreements had centred on how to balance public finances, support households with rising energy costs, and address water quality concerns.

While the broad outlines are known, including efforts to keep spending under control and introduce support measures, the exact content of the decisions has not yet been fully disclosed.

For now, the focus is on the political significance: the government has restored unity and avoided a deeper crisis. However, more difficult budget talks are expected later this year.
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​^{#FlandersNewsService | Flemish minister-president Matthias Diependaele © BELGA PHOTO DIRK WAEM}