On Thursday 14 July, after informing the Prime Minister, Sophie Wilmès presented her resignation as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Affairs and Foreign Trade, and Federal Cultural Institutions to H.M. King Philippe who accepted it.
“My husband’s illness will be a difficult battle that I want to fight at his side and at the side of our children. My current duties within the government could not allow me to do so. My thoughts go to those who are also fighting against the sickness. I thank from the bottom of my heart the many people who have shown us support on a daily basis. I would also like to thank the Prime Minister and my federal colleagues who have ensured the continuity of the work in my absence. To them, to the person who will take over and to the whole government, I wish success and perseverance in bringing to fruition the projects and reforms that our country so badly needs.”
Sophie Wilmès’ commitment to the Belgian people will continue, although she has to take into account her family circumstances now. Her departure from the government means that she will return to the Parlement from the start of the parliamentary term. As she has always done, Sophie Wilmès will work closely with her colleagues and her party for the country and her fellow citizens.