In 2016, Belgium and Japan will celebrate 150 years of friendship between Belgium and Japan, in commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. His Imperial Majesty The Emperor of Japan and His Majesty the King of the Belgians have accepted to act as honorary presidents of the 150 years of friendship between Belgium and Japan.
Diplomatic relations were established between Belgium and Japan on August 1st, 1866, with the signature of a Treaty of Amity, Commerce and Navigation. In a summit meeting between Prime Minister Abe and Prime Minister di Rupo in May 2014, confirmed by a summit meeting between Prime Minister Abe and Prime Minister Michel in May 2015, the governments of Belgium and Japan agreed to seize this opportunity to strengthen the bilateral relations between the two countries.
The 150 years of friendship between Belgium and Japan will be celebrated from December 1st, 2015 to December 31st, 2016, with various political, economic, cultural, academic and other commemorative events. These events will involve institutions, companies, academic organizations, associations and citizens from both countries.
Belgium and Japan enjoy excellent bilateral relations. They share the same fundamental values. Japan is a major economic partner of Belgium. Regular exhibitions, concerts, publications, and other cultural events make each other’s culture easily accessible, and numerous academic, scientific and personal exchanges take place. The festivities of the 150 years of friendship between Belgium and Japan will be a new occasion to deepen their mutual understanding and strengthen further their bilateral ties.
Count Herman Van Rompuy has been appointed the “Friendship Ambassador” for the 150 Years of Friendship between Japan and Belgium. He served as Belgium 49th prime minister albeit he is best known as first president of the European Council.
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