Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo's inaugural visit to China since taking office marks a significant milestone in Sino-Belgian relations. This high-level exchange is set to deepen the cooperative ties between China and Belgium, which in turn is expected to inject momentum into the broader China-European Union relationship.
The enduring friendship between China and Belgium serves as a model for international relations, bridging developed and developing nations alike. Established in 1971, the diplomatic relationship between the two countries overcame Cold War barriers, showcasing strategic foresight and political courage from both sides. Over the past five decades, China and Belgium have leveraged their complementary strengths in trade and technology, fostering a robust partnership that continues to evolve alongside China's modernization.
Economic ties have flourished, with bilateral trade volume increasing by 31.4 percent year-on-year in 2022. By November 2023, trade between China and Belgium reached an impressive $40.6 billion, up from $27.27 billion in 2014. Belgium has ascended to become China's seventh-largest trading partner within the EU. Additionally, Belgium was among the first European nations to enter the Chinese market, investing in over 1,300 projects with a total investment stock of $2.53 billion as of May 2023. Renowned Belgian companies like Solvay and Bekaert have capitalized on their technical expertise to thrive in the Chinese market, exemplifying the mutual benefits of this strategic partnership.
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China-Belgium cooperation will inject impetus into China-EU relations
cgtn.com
