Europe News
Belgian mediator fails to produce new government in seventh attempt
May 12, 2011, 15:21 GMT
Brussels - The seventh attempt at solving Belgium's political deadlock failed Thursday, with the latest mediator on asking King Albert II to be relieved of his duties.
The monarch would make a decision following 'consultations,' the royal palace said in a statement.
Wouter Beke, chairman of the Dutch-speaking conservative party CD&V was appointed 'royal negotiator' in March. Politicians from four other parties and the two houses of parliament have also failed to forge a compromise between Dutch and French-speaking parties.
The political standstill since June elections has won Belgium a world record for going the longest without a government in times of peace.
The leader of the French-speaking Socialist Party, Elio di Rupo, is likely to take over from Beke, Belgian media reported. Rupo had already attempted to broker a deal last year.
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