Foreign Affairs focuses on resilience and impact during Diplomatic Contact Days
From 2 to 6 February 2026, Foreign Affairs will organise the annual diplomatic contact days at the Egmont Palace in Brussels. During this week, all Belgian ambassadors, permanent representatives and consuls-general from around the world will come together. The meeting takes place at a time of great international uncertainty. The diplomatic contact days are therefore an important opportunity to share experiences, exchange knowledge and strengthen Belgian diplomacy.
This year's central theme is 'Global influence through economic and political diplomacy. How can we use and adapt our instruments to increase the impact of our policies?’
"The world is going through a period of profound uncertainty. The rules that have guaranteed stability for decades are being called into question. The balance of power is shifting. Yesterday's certainties no longer hold true. In this context, Belgium has a choice to make. And that choice is clear. In a world where some choose to withdraw, Belgium chooses to engage. In a world where international law is flouted, Belgium chooses to defend it. In a world of divisions, Belgium chooses to build bridges.
This is not idealism. It is realism. For a country like ours – open, export-oriented, rooted in multilateralism – there is no alternative. These diplomatic contact days bring together those who carry out this mission every day, on every continent. It is a time to share our analyses, sharpen our tools and prepare together for the challenges that lie ahead," says Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxime Prévot.
During the Diplomatic Contact Days, the strategic guidelines of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the federal government will be presented to the Belgian ambassadors, permanent representatives and consuls-general. They will discuss the main international challenges and ways in which our diplomacy can be further strengthened and made more resilient. The programme also includes meetings with the Prime Minister, various federal ministers and the minister presidents of the regions and communities. Discussions with business leaders, actors in international cooperation — including Enabel and BIO — and representatives of international financial institutions are also on the agenda.
The diplomatic contact days are an essential opportunity to prepare Belgian diplomacy for the challenges of today and tomorrow and to defend Belgium's interests worldwide.
Keep an eye on our communication channels for further updates. For additional information, journalists can contact the spokespersons of Foreign Affairs.