Belgian King Philippe has finished consultations with governing-party leaders after budget talks collapsed, leaving Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s resignation offer unresolved as the country seeks a credible budget.
New Flemish Alliance (N-VA) Chairwoman Valerie Van Peel met Philippe Thursday, closing the round of consultations with leaders from the governing majority, Anadolu Ajansı reported.
De Wever offered his government’s resignation Monday after coalition partners failed to agree on budget measures, Anadolu Ajansı reported. Philippe deferred a decision and consulted party leaders before Van Peel’s audience.
The Royal Palace’s Nov. 2 statement linked the need for a credible budget to Belgium’s current challenges. It also urged coalition parties to act in the public interest and avoid a prolonged political crisis.
The Royal Palace’s agenda lists an audience with De Wever for Friday, Nov. 6. The latest meeting follows EconoTimes’ earlier report on Philippe’s decision to defer a ruling on De Wever’s resignation offer.
