Talks on possible measures against Israel have been suspended until tonight
On Monday, top ministers from both the Flemish and federal governments met to discuss potential sanctions against Israel. Several hours later, the meeting was suspended so that the ministers could attend a networking event organised by VOKA, the Flemish employers' federation.
Flemish minister president Matthias Diependaele (N-VA) described the talks as constructive, but warned that a political crisis could ensue if coalition partners Vooruit and CD&V were to push a Gaza resolution through the Flemish parliament with the support of opposition parties. “We have a coalition agreement. That means we are committed to standing together in good times and bad,” he said, making clear that the N-VA rejects the idea of “shifting majorities”.
The hardest issues always come at the end
Talks at federal level on Gaza were also paused. Before the Voka event, prime minister Bart De Wever (N-VA) told reporters that progress was being made. "The hardest issues always come at the end, but compromises are possible with a little goodwill," he said, adding that he was confident the dispute would not bring down his government.
Speed up reforms
Speaking at the VOKA event, the organisation's new leader, Frank Beckx, urged both governments to speed up reforms. He called for a “pact” in which businesses would provide jobs, innovation and prosperity, while politicians would deliver the right framework and an attractive investment climate.
Beckx described the current situation as a “unique opportunity”, with the governments in agreement and ministers under pressure not to stop reforming. “The Flemish government must pick up speed,” he said. “Companies expect tangible results, not just action plans.” Addressing the federal cabinet, he added, “Keep going. Do not stop reforming. We are catching up, but we want to move ahead. This country needs long-term structural change.”
As ministers return from the business gathering, attention will shift back to the ongoing Gaza negotiations. With divisions running through both the Flemish and federal coalitions, the evening sessions will reveal whether a consensus can be reached on Belgium's position towards Israel.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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