Months of negotiations without results: federal government still cannot finalize budget talks

The budget negotiations for 2027-2029 in Belgium are ongoing but have yet to yield results, with coalition parties struggling to reach an agreement. The diverse composition of the government complicates discussions, particularly due to disagreements involving MR leader Georges-Louis Bouchez. Vice-premier Maxime Prévot expressed frustration over the situation, highlighting the need for all parties to share the financial burden. The government faces significant challenges, including rising debt and economic pressures, with a target of finding 10 billion euros to stabilize finances. Despite initial deadlines, progress has been slow, and the opposition criticizes the premier for delays. The next steps in negotiations are uncertain as the deadline for submitting the budget to the European Commission has already passed.