Belgium and Japan Mark 160 Years of Friendship at Embassy Reception in Tokyo
The Embassy of Belgium in Tokyo hosted a distinguished reception on Friday evening to mark the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Japan—an occasion shaped by history, shared values, and a clear sense of continuity.
Hosted by H.E. Mr. Antoine Evrard, Ambassador of Belgium to Japan, the reception welcomed members of the diplomatic corps, senior Japanese officials, business leaders, and cultural figures to the Embassy in Chiyoda. The evening held special significance with the presence of Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, whose attendance underscored the enduring ties between the Japanese Imperial Family and the Belgian Royal Family.
In a moving and thoughtful address, Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado spoke of the importance of friendship and sustained collaboration among people and nations. She described the long-standing relationship between Belgium and Japan as a model example of international friendship—one built not only on formal diplomacy, but on mutual respect, cultural exchange, and enduring goodwill between peoples.
Offering official congratulations, H.E. Mr. Yoshimasa Hayashi, Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan and President of the Japan–Belgium Parliamentary Friendship League, reflected on more than a century and a half of close relations between the two countries. He highlighted shared principles such as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, while noting expanding cooperation in strategic fields including semiconductors, hydrogen energy, and offshore wind power. He also recalled Belgium’s strong presence at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, describing the Belgian Pavilion as a vivid expression of cultural vitality and partnership.
Ambassador Evrard, in his remarks, described 2026 as a commemorative year dedicated to celebrating “160 years of friendship, long-term commitments, mutual respect and trust, and common achievements.” He expressed his appreciation to Belgian and Japanese companies, bilateral associations, and academic institutions whose support has made it possible to develop a wide-ranging program of anniversary events across Japan.
The reception also looked back to the origins of the bilateral relationship, which began in 1866 with the signing of the Treaty of Amity, Commerce and Navigation in Edo. Belgium was among the earliest nations to establish formal diplomatic ties with Japan following its opening to the world, laying the foundation for a relationship that has evolved steadily over generations.
As the evening drew to a close, guests were invited to continue conversations over authentic Belgian cuisine, accompanied—inevitably—by a generous selection of Belgian beers. In the warm, convivial atmosphere of the Embassy, the anniversary reception stood as both a celebration of history and a forward-looking reaffirmation of friendship. Framed by the words and presence of Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, the Belgium–Japan relationship was presented not as a static legacy, but as a living example of how enduring ties between nations are sustained—through continuity, cooperation, and trust.
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