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THE ASAHI SHIMBUN
June 24, 2026 at 18:59 JST
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako join Belgian King Philippe, Queen Mathilde, and their four children, at the Castle of Laeken in Brussels on June 23. (Palais royal/Koninklijk Paleis)
BRUSSELS—Adding to their long royal exchanges, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended a state banquet in Brussels on June 23, hosted by King Philippe and Queen Mathilde at the Castle of Laeken, as part of their official state visit.
The king and queen’s four children, including their eldest daughter and heir apparent, Princess Elisabeth, were in attendance.
According to the Imperial Household Agency, it was the first time all four royal children—two princesses and two princes—attended a state banquet hosted for a state guest.
This year marks the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Belgium.
In his speech, Naruhito said, “In this memorable year marking the 160th anniversary of friendship between Japan and Belgium, I am delighted to visit Belgium as a state guest with the empress at the invitation of your majesties, the king and the queen, and to have the opportunity to further deepen our friendship with your majesties.”
About half of the speech referenced the long-standing exchanges with the Belgian royal family, noting that 50 years ago in 1976 Naruhito first visited Belgium and recalled being “graciously treated as though I were a member of their family” by the then King Baudouin and Queen Fabiola.
Since marrying Masako, they have maintained close family ties, and he recalled watching the 2002 FIFA World Cup match between Japan and Belgium at a stadium with the king and queen, calling it “a cherished memory for the empress and me.”
Regarding bilateral relations, Naruhito noted that Belgium has become an important political and economic hub for the EU, with many Japanese companies expanding there, strengthening the ties.
He also welcomed growing exchanges in the arts and culture, saying, “As long-standing and valued friends, it is my sincere hope that Japan and Belgium will continue to forge lasting bonds of friendship and cooperation.”
Prior to this, Philippe delivered a welcoming speech, incorporating some Japanese.
He recalled memories of jogging with Naruhito when they were both crown princes, and spoke in a warm, friendly tone with humor.
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