Netherlands announces minority government's new Cabinet

By Melike Pala

BRUSSELS (AA) - The Netherlands announced Thursday the composition of its new minority government, with the right-wing People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) securing key positions, including the Defense Ministry and deputy prime minister, according to the NOS broadcaster.

The coalition of liberal, the D66, VVD and Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA), has agreed on the distribution of ministerial posts, prioritizing ministries aligned with each party's reform agenda.

D66 leader Rob Jetten will become prime minister and head the General Affairs Ministry, while his party will hold the agriculture and education, culture and science ministries.

The VVD will lead the Defense Ministry under party leader Dilan Yesilgoz, who will serve as deputy prime minister.

The party will control the justice and security, infrastructure and water management, finance, and health, welfare and sport ministries.

The center-right CDA party will oversee the ministries of foreign affairs, interior and kingdom relations, and eonomic affairs and climate policy.

The Cabinet will consist of 18 ministers and 10 state secretaries, two more than the previous Dick Schoof cabinet.

The minority Cabinet is expected to take office Feb. 23.

The coalition's formation follows months of negotiations and reflects a balance between the D66, VVD and CDA in a minority government setup.