ALDEN BIESEN, Belgium — What was intended as a straightforward gathering of like-minded leaders turned into a debacle that delayed the much-anticipated EU summit. An unexpected pre-meeting breakfast led to tardy arrivals and sparked accusations regarding the exclusion of certain leaders.
This informal breakfast took place at a hotel near Alden Biesen castle, where the formal discussions among EU presidents and prime ministers regarding the bloc’s economy were scheduled. Organized by Italy in collaboration with Germany and Belgium, the gathering stemmed from a coalition that previously met to advocate for stricter migration policies.
Accusations of exclusivity
On this occasion, 19 out of the EU’s 27 leaders were present, raising concerns among the absent members that critical conversations were being conducted behind closed doors. According to diplomats from non-invited countries, this led to feelings of exclusion.
“We weren’t invited,” Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin remarked to journalists while lamenting outside the castle, questioning the necessity of such a private gathering.
In response to the controversy, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez formally voiced his discontent with the decision to exclude Spain, as reported by El Mundo.
Conversely, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever refuted claims of a developing exclusive group, asserting, “I think everyone was invited.” He emphasized that the intention was not to create the impression of a coalition seeking to impose its will on others, as inferred by Spain.
Implications for the summit schedule
The pre-meeting additionally caused delays for those in attendance, with Council President António Costa commencing the first session on economic growth before the leaders of the three largest economies were present. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and French President Emmanuel Macron all arrived late due to the breakfast meeting.
As noted by an EU official, Costa initiated the discussion shortly before 11 a.m., aiming to adhere to the original timetable despite the delays. “There are many things to discuss,” the official stated, highlighting the importance of maintaining the schedule.
Interestingly, feedback from those who attended the breakfast suggests the concerns of the absent leaders may have been overstated. One diplomat from an attending country remarked that the discussions yielded “nothing,” indicating that with 19 leaders present, few had an opportunity to contribute, and Meloni, who organized the gathering, arrived just before the meeting concluded.