Belgium starts its European Presidency

From 1 January to 30 June 2024, it is Belgium's turn to take over the lead of the Council of the European Union. The ambition is to play a central role on the international stage for the next six months. It will be the 13th time for Belgium to hold the Presidency. Various events have been held to mark its launch.

 

The FPS Chancellery of the Prime Minister organised ceremonial events on Friday 5 January 2024 in the capital of Europe (in more ways than one this time).

 

 

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo unveiled the logo of the Belgian Presidency at Mont des Arts. It is placed above the garden and facing the iconic panorama of the city centre. For six months, the logo will symbolize the Presidency on this photogenic spot in Brussels. During this period it will also feature on other locations, including Brussels Airport.

 

 

In the evening, the opening event of the Belgian Presidency was held at Bozar. At the prestigious Henry Le Bœuf Hall, guests attended a musical performance conducted by Jef Neve, in the presence of TM King Philippe and Queen Mathilde as well as Belgian and international prominent figures.

 

The evening featured an original musical creation by Jef Neve, a tribute to some of the great Belgian artists of international renown, and performances by special guests such as violinist Lorenzo Gatto and the singers Selah Sue and Charlotte Adigéry. An orchestra comprising Belgian musicians from all regions accompanied the evening, which closed with a reception.

 

This event is organised in collaboration with the Communities and Regions, and highlights Belgium's openness for innovation, cooperation and diversity.

 

 

On the occasion of the presidency, an electric articulated bus of the Brussels public transport operator STIB is decked out entirely in the colours of the Belgian Presidency. The bus, co-financed with European funds, will run on line 64 between Haren and Porte de Namur during the six month-period of the Presidency. The initiative is the result of a collaboration between the Chancellery, STIB, and the European Commission Representation in Belgium.