Belgian King meets De Wever to discuss gov't formation

BRUSSELS - Belgium's King Philippe met with Bart De Wever on Tuesday at the Royal Palace in Brussels to review progress on forming a new federal government.

Belgium has been without a federal government since legislative elections in June 2024, prolonging a political deadlock.

De Wever, president of the New Flemish Alliance party (N-VA) and a member of the Chamber of Representatives, has led the negotiations among key political parties. Their discussion covers sensitive topics such as migration and fiscal policy.

On Tuesday, De Wever briefed the King on socio-economic developments and the status of talks with key political partners. Efforts are focused on forming an "Arizona" coalition, uniting five major parties: the N-VA, the Flemish Christian Democrats (CD&V), the socialist Vooruit, the French-speaking Reformist Movement (MR), and the centrist Les Engages.

The Royal Palace expressed hope on Friday for a breakthrough early this year. Coalition partners aim to finalize an agreement by the end of January, with De Wever scheduled to present a progress report to the King on Jan 31.