– Born on 24 November 1938 in Hasselt (B)

– Nationality: Belgian

– Graduated in political and diplomatic sciences (1960)

– Member of the Chamber of Representatives (1968–1991)

– Minister for National Education (1972–1973)

– Minister for Economic Affairs (1973–1974; 1977–1982; 1988–1992)

– Leader of the Flemish Socialist Party (1975–1977)

– Leader of the Party of European Socialists (1992–1994)

– Minister for Foreign Affairs (1992–1994)

– NATO Secretary General (1994–1995)

– Minister of State (1983)