News

Theo Francken: “Rather new elections than a Flemish minority government”

11 September 2020

MP Theo Francken discussed the ongoing federal coalition talks on the De Afspraak news show on the Flemish TV channel VRT. “We are in extraordinary circumstances with a coronavirus crisis and an economic crisis. If you then have to make difficult decisions, with Flanders contributing the most, you …

Geert Bourgeois sombre about Boris Johnson and the Brexit deal

11 September 2020

“This will never receive the approval of the European Union.” On the De Ochtend radio show on Radio 1, MEP Geert Bourgeois commented on the intention of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to revisit some Brexit agreements, including regarding the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland …

Geert Bourgeois: “New EU Trade Commissioner has ‘big shoes to fill’”

8 September 2020

Ursula von der Leyen is nominating the Latvian EU Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis as the new commissioner for international trade. He is facing the challenging task of filling the big shoes of Cecilia Malmström and Phil Hogan. According to Geert Bourgeois, N-VA delegation leader and coordinator for …

Bart De Wever on federal formation: “I don’t believe a word of the promised state reform”

6 September 2020

“Until 2024, Flanders will be governed for 12 of 16 years without a majority. We account for 83% of exports, 70% of taxes and billions in transfers. And by way of thanks, we get put in the minority by a government dominated by French speakers.” In the De Zevende Dag news show, N-VA Chairman Bart De …

Rules on visiting a partner abroad must be simpler

31 August 2020

As from 1 September, Belgians who have a relationship with a partner abroad may visit that person again. The condition, however, is that the couple has a “long-term relationship”. The N-VA is asking for more flexible and realistic criteria. “It is clear that the current rules are far too strict,” …

Flemish tourism policy earns praise in the New York Times