King Philippe of Belgium and Queen Mathilde are set to embark on a state visit to Vietnam from March 31 to April 4, 2025, at the invitation of President Luong Cuong and his wife. This visit marks a significant moment as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Vietnam, which were established in 1973.
Throughout their past visits, the royal couple has developed a deep affection for Vietnam, admiring its beautiful landscapes and the warmth of its people. King Philippe, who previously visited Vietnam in 1993, 2003, and 2012 as Crown Prince, has expressed his admiration for the country. Queen Mathilde also shares this sentiment, having visited Vietnam in 2012 as Princess of Belgium and again in 2023 as Honorary President of UNICEF Belgium.
The forthcoming visit is anticipated to strengthen the already robust relationship between the two nations, particularly in the fields of innovation, education, energy transition, and sustainable development. As Belgium celebrates its longstanding ties with Vietnam, both countries are looking forward to exploring new strategic cooperation opportunities.
Belgium currently ranks as Vietnam's sixth largest trading partner within the European Union (EU). The bilateral trade turnover reached an impressive $3.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to rise to $4.45 billion in 2024. This trade primarily involves pharmaceuticals, chemicals, machinery, equipment, and high-tech products. The economic relationship has flourished significantly over the past decade, particularly since the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) took effect in 2020. In fact, bilateral trade turnover hit a record level of 4.5 billion euros in 2022, with Vietnam benefitting from a favorable trade balance.
Investment ties between Vietnam and Belgium are also noteworthy. Since the signing of the Investment Encouragement and Protection Agreement on January 24, 1991, Belgium has established 100 active investment projects in Vietnam, with a total registered capital of $1.1 billion. This positions Belgium as the 23rd largest investor among 139 countries and territories in Vietnam and the sixth largest among EU member states.
Belgian enterprises are increasingly active in various sectors within Vietnam, including seaports, the food industry, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy. This diversification of investments underscores the commitment of Belgian businesses to contribute to Vietnam's economic development.
King Philippe, born on April 15, 1960, in Brussels, holds a Master of Political Science from Stanford University. He has served as the Honorary Chairman of the Belgian Foreign Trade Agency and the Belgian Federal Council for Sustainable Development. Since ascending to the throne in 2013, he has continued to foster international relations and promote sustainable practices.
Queen Mathilde, born on January 20, 1973, in Brussels, holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from the Catholic University of Louvain and a Bachelor’s degree in Speech Therapy. Her career has included significant roles in promoting health and education, as well as advocating for the Sustainable Development Goals as part of the United Nations. She has also served as the Special Envoy for the World Health Organization to promote vaccination.
As the royal couple prepares for their visit, there is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation among the Vietnamese populace. The visit is seen as an opportunity to deepen cultural exchanges and enhance mutual understanding between the two nations.
The relationship between Belgium and Vietnam is not only rooted in economic ties but also flourishes through cultural and educational exchanges. The two countries have collaborated extensively in areas such as agriculture, science and technology, education and training, culture, transportation, and defense and security.
Looking ahead, the upcoming visit of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde is expected to pave the way for further cooperation and partnership between Belgium and Vietnam. Both nations are eager to explore new avenues for collaboration, especially in light of the evolving global landscape.
As the royal couple embarks on this significant journey, it is a moment of pride for both countries, symbolizing the enduring friendship and cooperation that has blossomed over the past five decades. The visit is more than a ceremonial occasion; it represents a reaffirmation of shared values and a commitment to building a prosperous future together.
In conclusion, the state visit of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde to Vietnam is a timely celebration of the strong ties that have developed over the years. As both nations look to the future, their partnership is poised to grow even stronger, fostering mutual benefits in trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
