In a world facing increasing geopolitical tensions, climate challenges and humanitarian crises, international cooperation remains an essential instrument of Belgian foreign policy. It not only helps to tackle global challenges but also strengthens the security, economic opportunities and stability from which Belgian citizens benefit on a daily basis.
The annual report illustrates how Belgium is further expanding its international cooperation into broad, mutually beneficial partnerships. Development is increasingly linked to other policy areas, such as climate, economic development, investment, sustainable value chains, knowledge exchange and security. This integrated approach creates sustainable benefits for partner countries and for Belgium.
Belgium can rely on an extensive ecosystem of stakeholders in this regard. The diplomatic network, Enabel, BIO, non-governmental organisations, universities, businesses and multilateral partners are working together towards common objectives. In addition, Belgium uses Europe as a lever to achieve greater impact and increase its influence.
The annual report also demonstrates how Belgium deliberately focuses on areas where it can offer clear added value. For example, our country supports innovative projects for the transfer of mRNA technology, ensuring that partner countries are better prepared for future health crises and strengthening international health security. Through the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF), Belgium also contributes to improved weather and climate information in vulnerable countries, which is essential for climate adaptation, disaster prevention and food security, whilst simultaneously enhancing the quality of global weather and climate information. Global health, stability and humanitarian aid also remain key priorities.
Mutually beneficial partnerships create added value for all parties involved. A recent study on international academic cooperation shows, for example, that every euro invested generates an average of 2.1 euros in returns for Belgium. International cooperation thus not only contributes to global development but also strengthens knowledge, innovation and international networks within our own country. Partnerships centred on sustainable value chains and investments, in turn, can stimulate local economic development and contribute to more diversified and reliable supply chains for Belgium and Europe.
Results, transparency and accountability are the common thread running through Belgian development policy. The funds allocated are closely tracked through monitoring, evaluations, audits and external checks. The annual report not only accounts for the use of public funds, but also demonstrates in concrete terms the impact these investments have on people and communities worldwide.
The annual report emphasises that international cooperation is not only the right thing to do, but also a sound policy that delivers tangible benefits for Belgium and its citizens.
The 2025 Annual Report is available on the website of the FPS Foreign Affairs.