Pol De Witte’s illustrious diplomatic career
Over four decades, Pol De Witte has had a remarkable career in diplomacy, ranging from being an adviser and ambassador to holding the prestigious position of Secretary General of the Maison du Roi.
From diplomatic reserve to speaking out
Despite his diplomatic background, De Witte has not shied away from criticizing Belgium’s inaction on the Israel-Palestine issue, highlighting the country’s moral compass loss.
Decoding diplomatic complexities
As global shifts make foreign affairs more political, native of Brussels, De Witte, labeled as a “Flemish socialist,” helps decipher the diplomatic conundrum.
Q: Do diplomats align with the traditional image of Belgian diplomacy?
A: De Witte highlights the importance of motivation and merit, emphasizing that background does not determine privilege in the diplomatic world.
Q: What sparked your passion for diplomacy?
De Witte reveals his initial dream of becoming a journalist and how encounters with young diplomats during his master’s in international law kindled his interest in diplomacy.
Q: What was the role of Secretary General of the Maison du Roi?
De Witte sheds light on his responsibilities, managing all the King’s contacts and overseeing royal schedules and visits, emphasizing the intensity of this period, particularly during the COVID-19 era.
Q: What role does politics play in the King’s work?
De Witte discusses the King’s thoughtful approach to public appearances and interactions, emphasizing the social aspect and the importance of public perception.
Q: How do diplomats contribute to the functioning of the state?
De Witte underscores the essential role diplomats play in various government levels, emphasizing their expertise in navigating complex diplomatic issues.
Q: Is Belgian diplomacy ideologically driven?
De Witte discusses historical influences on Belgian foreign policy and highlights moments where divergent political ideologies impacted diplomatic decisions.
