Belgium–Philippines relations explained

Belgium–Philippines relations refers to the bilateral relations between Belgium and the Philippines. Belgium has an embassy in Manila and the Philippines has an embassy in Brussels.

History

Connections between Belgium and the Philippines can be traced back in the Colonial era during the reign of Leopold II of Belgium. In 1875, Leopold proposed to purchase the Spanish colony of the Philippines, their sole colony in the Far East, but his offer was declined.[1]

Formal diplomatic relations between Belgium and the Philippines was established on July 4, 1946.[2]

Economic relations

During a visit to the Philippines in September 1995, Belgian State Secretary decided to designate the Philippines as a "partner country" meaning that the country is prioritized as a recipient of Belgian development assistance. This designation remained until April 2000. Since 1995, Belgium has given the Philippines more than 45 million Euros worth of grants and loans as economic and social development aid to the country.[3]

See also

Notes and References

  1. Book: Hochschild, Adam . King Leopold's Ghost . 2006 . . 2006 . 9781447235514 . Updated . London . 41–42 . en . registration.
  2. Web site: Overview of the Philippines - Belgium Bilateral Relations. Philippine Embassy in Brussels. 31 December 2014.
  3. Web site: Philippines - Belgium Development Cooperation. Philippine Embassy in Brussels. 31 December 2014.