The Belgian judiciary has issued an arrest warrant for Dimitris Avramopoulos, the former European Commissioner, as part of the ongoing investigation into the "Qatargate" scandal.
The warrant marks a significant escalation in the probe, which centers on allegations that foreign governments sought to influence decision-making within the European Parliament through payments and gifts to current and former lawmakers.
Authorities are simultaneously requesting the lifting of Avramopoulos's parliamentary immunity to facilitate the arrest.
This procedural step is necessary to proceed with the detention and subsequent legal proceedings against the former commissioner.
The move underscores the seriousness with which Belgian investigators are treating the allegations of systemic corruption and foreign interference in EU institutions.
Avramopoulos has previously stated his intention to appeal to Greek judicial authorities, requesting that the matter be fully investigated and adjudicated in Greece.