Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo urged for "intervention" on Monday to the energy markets because the free market does not work during the European energy crisis.
De Croo, who spoke during the ONS 2022 International Energy Conference held in Stavanger, Norway, said that it is possible to be successful despite all the difficulties.
Norway was very helpful during the crisis in Europe, he stressed, adding that the country exported gas at full capacity, making it a reliable partner in the region.
Pointing that those who have good friends should not be afraid, De Croo emphasized that Norway is a "good friend".
Reiterating that natural gas prices have risen despite low-demand summer months, De Croo warned that the winter season has not yet entered.
"Uncertainty drives up prices, but it has become unbearable. I am an economist who believes in a free market. Today the free market does not work. If there is no benefit for the people here, it is necessary to intervene. If we are facing problems, we need to intervene to avoid paying the price of this uncertainty. I am talking about a temporary intervention," he said.
In a statement De Croo made in Belgium last week, he warned that the next 5-10 years will be very difficult.
"These will be difficult times, but if we stand together, we will get through this. 71 years ago, during the Second World War, we stabilized Europe. We managed to consolidate it. We stabilized the continent of Europe with energy and economic agreements. Today we are at the same point in energy policy. As all partners, we must set a policy and move forward. We have an excellent opportunity to evaluate this crisis," he suggested.
By Murat Temizer in Stavanger, Norway
Anadolu Agency