Prime Minister Bart De Wever (Flemish nationalist N-VA) is sticking to his position on the recognition of Palestine. He says that recognition is necessary, but only if certain conditions are met. ‘If the conditions are not met, recognition is pointless and even counterproductive.’ The Belgian leader was speaking, in fluet German, at a joint news conference together with his German counterpart, Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
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Belgian PM De Wever: ‘If conditions are not met, recognition of Palestine is pointless and counterproductive’
Colin Clapson
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‘These (conditions) include the demilitarisation of Hamas, the release of hostages and security guarantees for Israel. If these conditions are met, then recognition of Palestine is logical. And then recognition will also help,’ Mr De Wever added.
‘We must prioritise supporting the people of Gaza,’ the Belgian leader insisted.
Tomorrow, for the first time since the end of July, the Belgian Prime Minister will see all the ministers of the inner cabinet together to discuss Belgium’s position on Gaza. ‘We will discuss this within the coalition. Opinions are divided, as they are everywhere in Europe.’
Mr De Wever is in Germany for a meet and greet with the German Chancellor. Herr Merz emphasised that for Germany recognition of Palestine is not currently on the agenda either.
