Marking 160 years of Belgium–Japan relations, Prof. Gilbert Declerck, president of the Belgium-Japan Association (BJA), reflects on a partnership that has grown from 1866 ties to a modern network of trade, technology and culture. Building on Belgium’s strong showing at Expo 2025 Osaka, he explains how momentum is turning into projects in nanoelectronics, life sciences, the circular economy, digital transformation and sustainable food. Looking to 2026 and beyond, he outlines BJA’s priorities to connect companies, mobilize SMEs and deepen academia-industry links in green tech, AI, mobility and healthcare, keeping the relationship practical, people focused and future ready.
Bridges: How does the 160-year anniversary of Belgium–Japan relations reflect the current close ties between both countries?
Declerck: The 160th anniversary of Belgium–Japan diplomatic relations stands as a powerful symbol of enduring friendship and mutual respect between our nations. What began as a pioneering relationship in 1866 has evolved into a multifaceted partnership rooted in shared values of innovation, quality, and cultural openness. Today, our ties extend far beyond diplomacy, encompassing thriving trade, cutting-edge technological collaboration, and deep cultural exchange. This milestone year not only honors our shared history but also highlights the strength and vitality of our present relationship, which continues to grow through dynamic business partnerships, academic exchange, and people-to-people connections.
Following Belgium’s success at the Osaka Expo, what does the coming year hold for this increasingly important bilateral relationship?
Belgium’s success at the Osaka Expo has further enhanced our visibility and reputation in Japan, reinforcing Belgium’s image as a hub of innovation, creativity, and sustainable solutions. The Expo served as a catalyst for new partnerships in fields such as nanoelectronics, life sciences, circular economy, digital transformation, and sustainable food production. In the year ahead, we foresee a deepening of these collaborations, with more Belgian companies exploring opportunities in Japan and Japanese investors continuing to view Belgium as a gateway to Europe. Both governments and business communities are keen to build on this momentum, ensuring the Expo’s legacy translates into long-term cooperation and tangible projects.
The 160th anniversary of Belgium–Japan diplomatic relations stands as a powerful symbol of enduring friendship and mutual respect between our nations.
Prof. Gilbert Declerck, President of the Belgium-Japan Association (BJA)
BJA continues to support and strengthen the Belgium–Japan partnership. How do you see this developing across the business communities in 2026 and beyond?
As the BJA, our mission is to foster dialogue, trust, and collaboration between Belgian and Japanese businesses. Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, we see growing potential in areas such as green technology, AI-driven innovation, mobility, and healthcare — sectors where both countries excel and share complementary expertise. We also expect to see stronger SME participation, greater academic-industry collaboration, and a deepening of people-centric initiatives that bring our business communities closer together.
Through networking events, knowledge-sharing platforms, and advocacy, the BJA will continue to serve as a bridge — facilitating partnerships, guiding newcomers to both markets, and ensuring that the Belgium-Japan friendship remains as forward-looking and dynamic as it has been for the past 160 years.
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