Brussels budget debate: Minister De Smedt vs Ecolo's Khattabi ahead of conclave

Brussels Budget Minister Dirk De Smedt (Anders) and Ecolo parliamentary leader Zakia Khattabi clash over fiscal strategy three weeks before the budget conclave. The region aims to cut its deficit to ~€720 million amid heavy debt and €2 billion payroll. Khattabi dismisses De Smedt's approach as 'smoke and mirrors', signaling political friction over austerity measures.