Belgians call for end to bickering

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Belgians protested across the country yesterday to demand politicians end eight months of bickering and form a government.

Belgian media marked what they believe is a world record set by their country, 249 days of deadlock since the June 13 parliamentary election. "Finally world champions," crowed Flemish daily De Standaard.

Belgium holds the European record for stalled coalition talks, according to researchers at Sweden's Umea University who monitor the democratic process in Europe. Iraqi parties took 249 days last year to agree a coalition deal and a further 40 for parliament to approve the administration.