In Brussels, Two Installations Mark 160 Years Of Belgian–Japanese Ties
Magda Ehlers
Brussels Celebrates Belgium–Japan Ties
A Brussels exhibition marks 160 years of Belgium–Japan diplomatic relations, showcasing two installations at ULB and celebrating a shared history of cultural exchange, trade and innovation through 17 December 2026.
A special expo has been launched to mark 160 years of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Japan.
Throughout 2026 events and exchange programmes are being held across various fields, transcending public and private sector ties. The idea is to provide opportunities to deepen exchanges and mutual understanding among people in both countries.
The latest exhibition has just opened and will run up to December 17, as part of the 160th celebrations, plus the 10th anniversary of EASt (ULB Centre for East Asian Studies).
Highlights
- Two installations celebrate the anniversary of Belgium–Japan diplomatic relations.
- The exhibition also marks the tenth anniversary of EASt, ULB’s Centre for East Asian Studies.
- Featured works are “Nuage infini” and “Golden Rectangles E-Chain”.
- The venue is the hall of the Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management.
- The exhibition runs until 17 December 2026.
- Anniversary activities throughout 2026 encourage exchanges and mutual understanding.
Two original installations — “Nuage infini” and “Golden Rectangles E-Chain” —are being exhibited in the hall of the Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management.
This is located on the Solbosch campus of the Université libre de Bruxelles at Avenue Franklin D. Roosevelt 41, 1050 Bruxelles.
The official ULB exhibition listing confirms the venue and dates. Further enquiries: pick.keobandith@inspiringculture.com
It is, in fact, just one of several events being marked this year by Belgium and Japan, commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Amity, Commerce and Navigation.
Belgium and Japan established formal diplomatic relations with the signing of their treaty on 1 August 1866.
Belgium and Japan signed the treaty that year, marking the beginning of what has proved an enduring partnership. Belgium was but the latest country to set up formal ties with Japan following its opening to the world.
Over a period of 160 years, the friendship has flourished across generations—supported by the close bonds between the Imperial and Royal families, strengthened through trade and innovation, and enriched by cultural exchange.
From the first Belgian diplomats in Yokohama to today’s thriving business partnerships, the two nations have built a relationship founded on mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for the future.
From 1958 up to today, cultural and architectural exchanges have continued through world expositions, including the Japanese pavilion at the 1958 Brussels Expo and the Belgian pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka.
According to Belgium’s Foreign Affairs department, more than 300 Japanese companies operate in Belgium, collectively supporting around 35,000 jobs.
Throughout 2026, other events like the “Amaterasu” performance in Brussels and joint civic programmes aim to highlight the partnership across arts, sports, science, and education.
Illustrative photograph by Magda Ehlers.