The government formation in Belgium is still awaiting a breakthrough. Today, King Philippe received Bart De Wever, the formateur, for the sixteenth time in the process.
De Wever reported progress to the king, emphasizing the need for further negotiations. The king has increased pressure, hoping for a breakthrough by early January.
De Wever is set to report back on January 7. According to VRT, this attempt to form a new cabinet will be one of the three longest in history starting tomorrow, following the federal elections on June 9.
Negotiators from five parties are involved: the Flemish nationalist N-VA, the social-democratic Vooruit, the Francophone liberal MR, and the Christian democrats CD&V and Les Engagés. Negotiations have failed twice but are continuing, with discussions today focusing on taxes.
CD&V chairman Sammy Mahdi mentioned yesterday that the formation is progressing reasonably well, with difficult talks held last week but also some progress made.
Source: NOS