THE SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIET NAM
Government News
Openning up new 50-year journey for Viet Nam-Belgium relations
VGP - The first-ever State visit of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium to Viet Nam from April 1-3 not only holds historical significance but also ushers in a new 50-year journey in Viet Nam-Belgium relations, said Belgian Ambassador to Vietn Nam Van den Bossche.
Belgian Ambassador to Viet Nam Karl Van den Bossche (center) at the press briefing about the state visit of their Majesties the King and Queen of Belgium, Ha Noi, March 27, 2025 - Photo: VGP/Huong Giang
The Ambassador made the annoucement during a press briefing in Ha Noi on March 27.
The tentative agenda includes various political, diplomatic, economic and cultural meetings in Ha Noi, Hai Phong and Ho Chi Minh City, said the diplomat.
The Sovereigns will be accompanied by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxime Prévot, the Secretary General of the Federal Public Service for Foreign Affairs Theodora Gentzis, Minister-President of the Government of the Brussels-Capital Region Rudi Vervoort, Minister-President of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation Elisabeth Degryse, Minister-President of the Government of Wallonia Adrien Dolimont and Flemish Minister for Brussels and Media Cieltje Van Achter.
Representatives of the business community and the academic world will also join the delegation.
The visit is a historic moment, as it is the first country to recognize Viet Nam since it established diplomatic relations with Belgium in 1973.
Since then, the relationship with Viet Nam – like the country itself – has evolved considerably. As a major player in the region and one of the most dynamic economies in Asia, Viet Nam is an indispensable partner for Belgium.
The meetings with the various Vietnamese authorities will therefore offer an excellent opportunity to further deepen and enrich this diverse partnership.
Belgian investors, NGOs, universities, training institutions and research centres are collaborating increasingly closely with Viet Nam.
Belgian companies are active in various sectors, ranging from the green economy to the health and biotech industry and the agri-food industry. With their technical expertise, they contribute to the country's economic growth in a sustainable way. During the state visit, these Belgian assets will be fully highlighted.
Last but not least, attention will also be paid to the settlement of war consequences in Viet Nam and solidarity will be shown with the victims of the toxic defoliant Agent Orange./.