Federal Government negotiations will continue under the guidance of formator Bart De Wever, sources confirmed on Tuesday following a meeting of party leaders working to form a new government.
Right-wing N-VA leader Bart De Wever visited King Philippe at 16:00 on Tuesday to report on the progress of talks, which have stretched into six months following the elections on 9 June. His mission is likely to be extended once again.
The afternoon meeting included the formator, the leaders of the four other political parties in the prospective 'Arizona' coalition parties (liberals Mouvement Réformatuer, centrists Les Engagés, socialists Vooruit, Christian Democrats CD&V) as well as N-VA negotiator Jan Jambon.
De Wever's approach has been heavily criticised lately. The politician presented a new budget framework intended to form the basis for ongoing negotiations.
De Wever is due to meet the King again on 20 December, the Royal Palace announced on Tuesday afternoon.
.@Bart_DeWever werd in audiëntie ontvangen in het Koninklijk Paleis. Hij heeft verslag uitgebracht aan de Koning over zijn opdracht voor de vorming van een nieuwe regering. Hij zal opnieuw verslag uitbrengen op 20 december. pic.twitter.com/YkHeLOTlDY
— Belgian Royal Palace (@MonarchieBe) December 10, 2024
Translation: Bart De Wever was received in audience at the Royal Palace. He reported to the King on his mission to form a new government. He will report again on 20 December.