Sometimes we are too Dutch in the way we phrase things internationally and that’s a shame, because damage can be prevented. This is what Esther de Lange, MEP of the CDA and vice-president of the European Christian Democrats, affirms in the Big Five of the BNR. According to De Lange, Prime Minister Mark Rutte did not act “worthy of a prime minister” when he said that Bulgarian border guards can be bribed for 50 euros.
“Such a comment from Rutte does incredible damage,” says De Lange. ‘Austria is actually more cross-Schengen than the Netherlands, but we still have Zwarte Piet. Sometimes we are very Dutch in the way we phrase things internationally and that’s a shame, because damage can be prevented.’
According to De Lange, we have “a lot of reflection” to say: OK, the Commission says that all the requirements have been met, but we know better and believe that this is not the case in Bulgaria. And then there is also a comment from our prime minister. Then I think: here we go again.’
And he continues: ‘If Rutte had said, we want to be even more certain that the problem of corruption – which also plays a part in the port of Rotterdam – will be addressed, then it would be worthy of a prime minister. But saying ‘with 50 euros you can get by’, we must realize that this is not a subordinate clause during a press conference on Friday afternoon in the Netherlands. All of Europe feels it”.
Source: BNR
Sharon Rock is an author and journalist who writes for 24 News Globe. She has a passion for learning about different cultures and understanding the complexities of the world. With a talent for explaining complex global issues in an accessible and engaging way, Sharon has become a respected voice in the field of world news journalism.
