The Brussels Urban Summit was always intended to be a big deal. The event last week saw mayors and delegations from 160 cities assemble in Belgium's capital to discuss urban renewal.
For Pascal Smet, the minister whose mission has been to pull Brussels towards a cleaner and more pleasant city, this was a moment to shine. His excitement was undisguisable as he told The Brussels Times of his office's exceptional achievement in convening three international conferences at one time and location.
Eager to stress that the occasion confirms Brussels as an "international diplomatic city on a global level," Smet highlighted the "unique opportunity to showcase Brussels' transformation and how it has become a model city." Of course, his enthusiasm for showing off the policies that have changed Brussels might have something to do with the fact that they are the products of his own office.
At the event itself, Smet had the awareness to temper his lofty evocations with a more deprecating and honest depiction of Brussels as "perfectly imperfect". Though the minister's efforts to reduce traffic and overhaul dated infrastructure haven't been without criticism from city residents, he was clearly relishing the chance to take centre stage before an international crowd.
All seemed to be going swimmingly until photos emerged of delegations from Iran and Russia who were also enjoying some Belgian hospitality (guests were treated to hotels and receptions). In light of the geopolitical hostilities both these states face – Belgium's case against Iran is particularly sensitive given the recent Vandecasteele affair – a chorus of outrage was swiftly directed towards Smet for allowing their presence.
More than merely an oversight on Smet's part, subsequent questioning revealed that he actually facilitated the attendance of these personae non grata. His position indefensible, Smet stepped down yesterday though not without attempting to deflect some of the blame. Belgium's Foreign Minister is next in line for a parliamentary grilling, scheduled for Wednesday.
This may be the city of imperfection but there's a limit to how far things can be let slip.
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