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Europe needs to do more after Trump's victory: Belgian FM

Xinhua, November 9, 2016 Adjust font size:

Donald Trump's victory in the U.S. presidential elections is "a signal for Europe to do more," said Belgian foreign minister Didier Reynders.

In an interview with local broadcaster VRT, Reynders said the election of Trump offered opportunities for Europe to sound a stronger voice in the world.

"There is a trend towards protectionism, rejection of immigration. It's not only in the U.S.," he said, adding that the trend also showed in other scenarios like Britain's secession from the European Union (EU), and the difficult negotiations of an EU-Canada free trade deal.

"Even under (President) Obama there was a trend towards America folding in on itself. We've already said it's time for Europe to do more in NATO. The trend will possibly be even more pronounced under President Trump," the minister said.

"The EU must now be stronger in defense policy and foreign affairs," he said. "We need a stronger Europe."

Reynders said Europe now had to await the decisions of the new U.S. administration, and stand ready before challenges. Endit