Toespraak van Hare Majesteit de Koningin ter gelegenheid van de Belgische receptie tijdens de Belgische Economische Missie naar Turkije
Address by Her Majesty the Queen of the Belgians
Belgian Reception, 11 May 2026
Belgian Economic Mission to Türkiye 2026
Your Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Bosphorus, that iconic crossroads between Europe and Asia, never fails to remind us of the rich history and symbolism of Istanbul as a center of the world. A city where so many countries and people have left their mark. Built on civilizations, it is a symbol of the promise the future holds.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
This economic mission is not merely a diplomatic visit. It is the renewal of a bond that has matured over nearly two centuries. What started as a formal recognition in 1838 has developed into a profound partnership built on mutual respect and shared interests.
It has been nearly fourteen years since His Majesty the King—then Crown Prince—led a similar delegation here. Today, by returning with a delegation of over 200 eager companies and more than 400 participants, we are sending a clear message: our bilateral relations have never been stronger, and our shared ambitions have never been higher.
Today, our cooperation is driven by a powerful synergy. We see this in our flourishing trade- from life sciences to logistics- where Belgium’s leadership in the energy transition meets Türkiye’s strategic role as a regional hub. Together, we are building sustainable corridors and digital innovations that define our common future.
The economic synergy between our two countries is rooted in deep trust and remarkable complementarity. Türkiye stands as Belgium’s fourth-largest trading partner outside the EU, with our trade in goods reaching historic heights. But the true strength of our partnership lies in investment and job creation.
Belgian and Turkish capital are working together to build the industries of tomorrow. We are not just trading goods. We are building infrastructure and opportunities that benefit citizens in both our countries. We are discovering and developing synergies at all levels and in all sectors.
Our cooperation contributes to international connectivity, innovation and prosperity.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
This bond naturally extends to our shared security and industrial growth.
Our companies are working together towards a technological sovereignty for a stable and secure future. In an era of global geopolitical uncertainty, even anxiety, the importance of reliable, strategic partners cannot be overstated.
Türkiye offers a compelling advantage as a hub for nearshoring and resilient supply chains. Through this economic mission, we are focusing on five strategic pillars—from the green energy transition and life sciences to digital transformation and aerospace.
By aligning our Belgian know-how with Turkish industrial dynamism, we are creating a partnership that is not only economically profitable but strategically resilient.
Beyond the figures and treaties, it is the spirit of friendship that truly defines us. It is seen in our vibrant cultural and academic exchanges, as well as in the thriving tourism between our countries. Türkiye stands as a symbol of hospitality and quality.
Let us then work together and look forward to a future where our partnership continues to reach new heights.
Thank you.