Theo Francken: “Stay away from Mali, focus on NATO engagement”

In a debate on the TV programme Terzake, N-VA MP and Belgian delegation leader of the NATO parliament Theo Francken said that the Belgian army must focus on its NATO engagement and the situation in Eastern Europe, and not start a mission in Mali. “Our army can do no more. We must choose,” Theo Francken says. He also pointed out the need for continued investment in defence. “The previous government initiated that change. While it is true that the current government is continuing it, I note that unfortunately EUR 1 billion is nevertheless being saved.”

No reason to go to Mali

As a NATO partner - and actually a founding member - Belgium is committed to providing troops for the alliance’s rapid response forces. “But apparently this government also wants to send troops to Mali. That is problematic, because if we have to send our troops to Eastern Europe at NATO’s request, we cannot deploy them in Mali. The situation in Europe today is a priority. In fact, we have no reason to go to Mali,” Theo Francken says.

Putin’s best friends

In the debate - with Groen party MP Wouter De Vriendt - he also pointed out that the decision to phase out nuclear power also has major geopolitical consequences. “This makes us even more dependent on Putin and his gas. That puts us in a weak negotiating position. We will soon even become Putin’s ‘best friends’.”