No time to lose for coalition talks in Flanders

Following the regional elections coalition talks begin today, Tuesday, in Flanders. They may last a while, despite the fact that the current ruling parties still have a majority, De Standaard writes, and adds that there's no time to lose in view of the many problems that require attention: "The uncomplicatedness with which the Flemish government was able to spend money for political goals has gone. We must learn to do more with less. … Secondly, the Flemish government must execute a strong and future-oriented anti-crisis policy. For instance the doubts about the survival chances of the Opel plant in Antwerp have not evaporated since June 7. … Moreover Belgian Prime Minister Herman Van Rompuy will be begging the Flemish government for money to rescue his wobbly 2010 budget in three months' time. How will Flanders react under the new government to such urgent pleas? The answer to this question will determine the chances of survival of the federal government."

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