Fitch report proves fundamental reforms are needed

The N-VA regrets that Fitch has lowered its outlook rating for Belgium. We hope that this will give all the negotiators concerned a little nudge to get the necessary reforms pushed through. Hot on the heels of S&P, Fitch is the second rating agency to stress the importance of major state reform in Belgium. The N-VA remains committed to giving the federated entities financial responsibility for their policies. Both rating agencies stress the need for major reforms, including on the socio-economic level. Just as in the debate on the European semester, the N-VA finds that its socio-economic program sits closely with the recommendations of all international players. It is evident that these international bodies are expecting clear choices to be made. To appease the financial markets we must send out a clear and unequivocal signal, and ideally do so as soon as possible. A ramshackle reform will do nothing to dispel these institutions’ concerns. The N-VA hopes that Di Rupo will produce his formation memo as soon as possible and be bold in making the right choices.