Benelux army in the making

RNW, 18 April 2012

A new agreement has just been signed that will allow the armed forces of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg to co-operate more fully. Belgian Defence Minister Pieter De Crem suggests that the new accord opens the way for the creation of a Benelux army.

Dutch Minister of Defence Hans Hillen said that the deal will enable the three countries to maintain their military power in times of sharp cuts. He said the plan could be an example for other European countries, showing them how to cooperate without giving up one's own nationality.