Jordan Bardella visited Brussels to cement relations with Vlaams Belang and called for greater coordination among like-minded parties on migration and asylum policy. Speaking at the Flemish Parliament, he backed measures to process some asylum claims outside Europe and to speed up deportations. The event attracted supporters and several hundred protesters who criticized his movement for threatening equality and democratic freedoms. The visit is part of a broader tour that has included Portugal and Italy and comes amid heightened attention on France's 2027 presidential contest.
Bardella Strengthens Ties With Vlaams Belang in Brussels, Urges EU-Wide Migration Coordination
Belgium: Jordan Bardella strengthens ties with Vlaams Belang in Brussels visit
Jordan Bardella, leader of France's National Rally, travelled to Brussels this week to deepen ties with the Flemish nationalist party Vlaams Belang. Speaking inside the Flemish Parliament, he urged closer coordination among ideologically aligned parties on migration and asylum policy, saying unified action could influence decision-making across the European Union. The visit comes as attention grows around France's 2027 presidential contest, where Bardella could play a prominent role depending on forthcoming legal and political developments within his party.
Calls For Coordinated Migration Policy
In his address, Bardella argued that like-minded parties should work together to reshape EU policy on migration and asylum. He welcomed proposed measures that would allow some asylum claims to be processed outside Europe and said faster processing and deportations were needed to restore control over external borders.
Response And Protests
The Brussels event drew both supporters and several hundred demonstrators outside the Flemish Parliament. Protesters accused Bardella and his allies of promoting policies they say undermine equality and democratic freedoms. Organisers and security sources reported the demonstration was peaceful but vocal, underlining the contentious nature of Bardella's outreach to nationalist partners.
Broader Diplomatic Push
The Brussels visit is part of a wider tour that has taken Bardella to Portugal and Italy as nationalist parties across Europe seek greater influence over migration, environmental policy and the EU's future direction. Analysts say these visits aim to build a more coordinated platform ahead of upcoming European and national contests.
Context: The meetings underline growing cooperation among right-of-centre nationalist parties in Europe as migration and border policy remain central political issues across the bloc.
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