FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation - Press service (P&C/P)

Today, the FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation and the Embassy of Japan in Belgium co-host the opening ceremony for the 160th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries at the Egmont Palace. 

The FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation is proud to announce the launch of its new Humanitarian Strategy  As the world changes rapidly, this major update reflects Belgium’s ambition to remain a principled, ethical, and forward-looking humanitarian donor. Developed through extensive consultations with national and international partners, it sets out a clear vision for Belgium’s humanitarian action in the coming years.

Many Belgians end up in prison abroad every year. They are often deprived of the support of family and friends, and of the necessary framework for a successful reintegration into society once their sentence has been served.

In today’s challenging geopolitical times, fragility and resilience resonate more than ever. For many years, the FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation has been committed to reducing fragility and strengthening resilience for a more stable future.

On 17 January 2026, the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) Agreement will officially enter into force. Belgium welcomes this historic milestone. This Agreement is a crucial step forward in better protecting biodiversity in the high seas and providing sustainable solutions to the challenges facing the ocean.

On International Human Rights Day, Foreign Affairs emphasises its ongoing commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights. Human rights remain a core priority of Belgian foreign policy. This message comes at a symbolic moment: Belgium's mandate in the UN Human Rights Council has just come to an end.

On Friday 28 November, Belgium officially submitted its candidacy to host the Secretariat of the new BBNJ Agreement (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) in Brussels. With this candidacy, Belgium is making a tangible contribution to the protection and conservation of marine biodiversity in the ocean.

25 November is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and also marks the start of a 16-day UN campaign against violence against women and girls. This year, the campaign focuses on combating digital violence against women and girls. Foreign Affairs warns against the growing threat of digital violence and is actively committed to ending it.  

Severely affected by hurricane Melissa, Jamaica has asked for help and Belgium, through B-FAST, has responded to this call by providing hundreds of generators, in order to support the Jamaican people during this disaster.