Belgian Prime Minister De Wever Vows “Inevitable” Reforms, Outlines Decade-Long Plan for National Renewal
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A newly elected “Belgian of the Year” is signaling a period of significant change for the nation. Prime Minister Bart De Wever has asserted that comprehensive institutional reforms are essential to address Belgium’s challenges, focusing on budgetary consolidation, migration, and national security.
De Wever, recognized by VTM Nieuws and Het Laatste Nieuws for his leadership, emphasized the urgency of these changes in a recent interview. “Institutional reforms will return. Otherwise, we will no longer be able to put anything in order in this country,” he stated, acknowledging the limitations of his current government. While recognizing the need for a two-thirds majority to enact sweeping changes, De Wever remains resolute, adding, “I don’t know how or when, but we will get there eventually.”
A Ten-Year Vision for Belgium
The Prime Minister outlined a long-term strategy, anticipating a decade of work to fundamentally reshape the country’s economic and social landscape. He acknowledged that while his government has already initiated positive steps, “the next ten years will still be marked by bad news.” Despite this sobering outlook, De Wever articulated clear objectives for his tenure: achieving a structural budget surplus, implementing a stricter migration policy, and guaranteeing citizens’ security and energy independence.
“I believe we can achieve this if we continue to work hard for another four years,” he affirmed. This commitment to long-term planning underscores a pragmatic approach to governance, recognizing the complexity of the challenges facing Belgium.
Euroclear Success and International Diplomacy
De Wever also highlighted a recent diplomatic success regarding the Euroclear file, specifically the non-utilization of frozen Russian assets. He attributed the positive outcome to “strong leadership,” suggesting that the situation could have unfolded differently without his direct involvement.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister detailed a productive conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of a European summit. According to De Wever, he assured Zelensky of continued support, stating, “I was able to tell him before the summit: sleep soundly. You will leave with 90 billion euros.” He also addressed recent criticisms, adding, “don’t doubt my intentions. Because being presented as a Putin supporter has sometimes been very hurtful.”
De Wever’s vision for Belgium is ambitious, demanding sustained effort and a willingness to confront difficult realities. His commitment to reform, coupled with his recent successes on the international stage, positions him as a key figure in shaping the nation’s future.
