Verhofstadt wants to be president European Parliament

brussels - Guy Verhofstadt has set Friday candidate for the presidency of the European Parliament. The Belgian liberal wants to follow the Social Democrat Martin Schulz, who has returned to politics in Germany.

In a video in which he announces his candidacy, Verhofstadt explains his decision: ' In these uncertain and turbulent times, Europe is now threatened by nationalists and populists, we need visionaries, bridge builders and compromisers. I want to be one of them. ''

'Can compromise '

His years as Prime Minister of Belgium are according to him the evidence that he can compromise and work together with Christian Democrats, Social Democrats and Greens. ' Belgium has taught me that passion and pragmatism go hand in hand. It has taught me that 'compromise' is not a dirty word. ''

Verhofstadt needs support for his candidacy from other groups than liberal. He hopes to receive support from the left to avoid the Christian Democrat Antonio Tajani of Italy President of the EP.