Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic Bonds
Italian President Sergio Mattarella, accompanied by his daughter Laura Mattarella, undertook a three-day state visit to Belgium from October 20 to 22, 2025. The visit, hosted by King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium, was designed to reinforce the deep-rooted economic, academic, and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The itinerary spanned key locations including Brussels, Charleroi, and Bruges, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the bilateral relationship. Both countries, as founding members of the European Union and NATO, share a common vision for peace, stability, and solidarity, which was a central theme of the discussions.
Key Engagements and Commemorations
The state visit commenced on Monday, October 20, with an official welcome ceremony at the Royal Palace in Brussels, including a review of the Guard of Honour. President Mattarella and his delegation were then introduced to the Belgian hosts, followed by a luncheon. Later that day, President Mattarella laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and visited the Federal Parliament, where he reportedly called Brussels 'the capital of Europe' and emphasized the 'brotherhood' between Italy and Belgium. A meeting with Prime Minister De Wever was also part of the day's agenda. The evening concluded with a state banquet hosted by Their Majesties at the Royal Chateau of Laeken.
Tuesday, October 21, saw President Mattarella and his daughter received at Brussels City Hall. The royal couple joined them at the Royal Library of Belgium to view original manuscripts of Dante, highlighting the strong cultural connections. A poignant ceremony was held at Bois du Cazier in Marcinelle to commemorate the 1956 mining tragedy, which claimed 262 lives, many of whom were Italian migrant workers. This was followed by a working lunch focused on space cooperation in Écaussinnes, and the day concluded with a concert hosted by the Italian delegation at La Monnaie Theatre.
Concluding Visit in Bruges
The final day of the state visit, Wednesday, October 22, was dedicated to Bruges. The President received an official welcome from the Governor of West Flanders before visiting the historic town hall, the Church of Our Lady, and the Groeninge Museum. These engagements underscored the deep artistic and historical ties that bind Belgium and Italy.
The visit served to underscore the robust and multifaceted economic relations between the two countries, with Italy being Belgium's sixth-largest client and seventh-largest supplier worldwide in 2024. Cooperation areas include the chemical industry, energy, environmental transition, smart cities, ports, defence capabilities, logistics, biotechnology, digital innovation, and the aerospace sector. This state visit, the first since 2002, reaffirmed the enduring partnership and shared European values of Italy and Belgium.
5 Comments
paracelsus
Waste of taxpayer money on fancy dinners and ceremonies.
eliphas
It's positive to see cultural ties celebrated, especially with historical figures like Dante. However, focusing so much on cultural symbols might distract from more pressing economic or social challenges both nations face.
paracelsus
Strong partnerships like this between Italy and Belgium benefit everyone involved.
eliphas
Does this actually achieve anything tangible beyond pleasantries?
paracelsus
While diplomatic visits are good for optics and maintaining relationships, the true impact on trade and cooperation often takes years to materialize and isn't guaranteed. It's hard to measure immediate benefits from such events.