Brussels, Belgium: In a recent diplomatic development, Belgium has withdrawn from Spain’s latest meeting to discuss the recognition of Palestine, citing concerns over Spain’s forceful approach within the European Union (EU).
Hadja Lahbib, Belgium’s Foreign Minister, expressed reservations regarding Spain’s pressure tactics and emphasized the need for a more measured and rational approach towards the recognition of a Palestinian state.
Lahbib highlighted Spain’s intensified advocacy for Palestinian recognition following an internal coalition shift, which she believes has disrupted the momentum for a collaborative approach within the EU.
This prompted Belgium, along with Ireland, Slovenia, and initially Spain itself, to withdraw from the group. Luxembourg and Portugal subsequently followed suit, signaling a fracture in the unity of EU member states on this issue.
Belgium, currently holding the rotating presidency of the EU Council, aims to mediate the impasse surrounding Palestinian recognition.
Lahbib disclosed that informal discussions took place during a Foreign Affairs Council meeting, while formal deliberations occurred during a cooperative council with Gulf countries.
Advocating for a rational and pragmatic approach, Lahbib stressed the importance of assessing milestones and criteria for engaging other European countries in the recognition of Palestine.
She emphasized the necessity of moving beyond emotional responses and providing hope to Palestinians committed to peaceful dialogue.
Meanwhile, Josep Borrell, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, proposed the idea of a preparatory conference for peace, aiming to garner support from Arab and EU nations.
Though facing opposition within the council, discussions are underway to delineate a roadmap and determine the timing for Palestinian recognition.
Within Belgium’s Federal Government, a working group has been established to address the issue of Palestinian recognition in alignment with the governing Vivaldi agreement.
This agreement stipulates recognition at an opportune moment within the EU and multilateral forums or in conjunction with a significant coalition of like-minded nations.
However, political consensus within Belgium remains elusive, with differing opinions among MPs from various parties. While Socialist Party (PS) MP André Flahaut advocates for re-establishing connections with Spain, criticism has been directed at Lahbib’s party, MR, for purportedly obstructing this initiative.
Additionally, MP Simon Moutquin of Ecolo argued that the legislative period should not conclude without recognizing Palestine. Despite the challenges, Belgium appears inclined to take action before the United Nations General Assembly.
Following the US’s veto in the Security Council regarding Palestine’s bid for UN membership, attention will shift to the upcoming Assembly session, where a Palestinian resolution is anticipated.
“We are awaiting Palestine’s submission of a resolution,” Lahbib remarked, underscoring the need for caution and allowing Palestine to draft the resolution. “We will certainly support it, and there’s a strong likelihood we will sponsor it,” she affirmed.
As Belgium navigates the complex terrain of international diplomacy, its stance on Palestinian recognition underscores its commitment to fostering dialogue and pursuing a constructive resolution to the longstanding conflict in the Middle East.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
