State Visit The Netherlands to Belgium 20-22 June 2023: an overview
During the state visit of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima
of the Netherlands to Belgium, a sense of anticipation filled the air
as the two royal couples embarked on a journey to strengthen the
bonds between their respective nations.
The visit marked an important milestone in the bilateral relations
between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Kingdom of
Belgium, further solidifying the long-standing friendship
between the two neighboring countries.
Besides this, both King Willem-Alexander and King Philippe
are celebrating this year their tenth anniversary on the throne.
I really looked forward to see lovely pictures from the royals and
they didn't let me down.
State Visit Willem-Alexander/Máxima to Belgium
DAY 1
As King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima arrived at the
Royal Palace in Brussels, they were warmly welcomed by
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium.
Then they paid homage to the fallen soldiers of both countries,
underscoring the importance of remembrance and the pursuit of peace.
The visit also included a tour of landmarks highlighting the
architectural beauty and unique charm of Belgium,
creating opportunities for dialogue on urban planning and heritage
conservation.
After this remembrance, they visited the town Hall and the puclic could
great the royals on the Grand Place of Brussels.
The state visit culminated in a grand state banquet, hosted by King Philippe
and Queen Mathilde in honor of their Dutch counterparts.
This State Banquet took place at the Castle of Laken.
During his speech King Willem-Alexander
made a joke about K3 (now a Belgian/Dutch girls group) and he said
giving an opera in Brussels for the return event was a bit tricky.
The Belgian revolution started with an opera in the Munt theatre
in Brussels on the B-day of King Willem I of the Netherlands.
Tiara Queen Máxima: Stuart Tiara
Tiaras Queen Mathilde:
9 Provinces and the Wolfers Tiara (as a necklace).
Princess Astrid of Belgium and her husband Prince Lorenz attended
the State Banquet too. Prince Laurent and his wife, Princess Claire
didn't attend the State Banquet, as well as King Albert II and Queen
Paola.
State Visit Willem-Alexander/Máxima to Belgium
with Philippe/Mathilde - DAY 2:
On the 2nd. day of the State Visit the Queens went to the
Music Chapel of Waterloo.
The kings arrived at the Bio Park in Charleroi. The Bio Park
known for its innovative research and development in the field of
biotechnology, provided an opportunity for
King Willem-Alexander and King Philippe to learn about the latest
advancements and ongoing projects.
Koninklijk huis
At 15.30 all royals arrived at the school Institut St André. Before heading back to
Brussels.
Koninklijk huis
At 20.00 the return event took place.This was a concert at
the Flagey in Brussels. On this event both Queen Máxima of
The Netherlands and Queen Mathilde of the Belgians wore
lovely dresses from Taminiau.
State Visit Willem-Alexander/Máxima to Belgium
with Philippe/Mathilde - DAY 3
On the third day of their State Visit to Belgium,
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima embarked
on a fascinating journey through the city of Antwerp.
Town Hall of Antwerp Bjorn Hoex
Their first stop was the iconic Grand Place, where they strolled
about, taking in the magnificent architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
The royal couple received a warm welcome at the Town Hall, where
they were greeted by local officials and engaged in discussions
on matters of mutual interest.
Pictures made by Geert Janssens
Continuing their exploration of Antwerp's rich cultural heritage,
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima proceeded to the
renowned Royal Museum of Fine Arts (KMSK).
The Havenhuis, an architectural gem overlooking the Antwerp port,
was the next stop on their itinerary.
Picture made by Bjorn Hoex
As part of their visit, the royal couple embarked on a maritime adventure,
visiting both a Belgian and a Dutch frigate.
The day culminated in a grand closing ceremony, attended by dignitaries
from both countries. Unfortunately it started raining.
Picture made by Bjorn Hoex
Following the ceremony, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima
engaged in a press conversation, providing insights into their
experiences during the State Visit.
To conclude their eventful day, the King and Queen met
with the Dutch community residing in Belgium. This gathering provided
an opportunity for the royal couple to connect with their fellow
countrymen and women, listening to their experiences in Belgium.
Thank you
A big thank you to Geert Janssens and Bjorn Hoex, for the fantastic
pictures!
Will be updated!
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