The Belgians gave equal importance to all the ethnic groups. At the Centre, there were both French and Dutch ministers, and their number was equal. The Centre and the states had equal and independent powers. If new laws were made, they had to be passed with the majority in both ethnic groups-voting for them.A separate government was elected for the city of Brussels. A third community government was elected, comprising Dutch, French and German-speaking people. It looked after the language, culture and educational issues. In short, the Belgians wisely tried to avoid all tensions and conflicts by accommodating the needs and wishes of all ethnic groups.