Belgium and Singapore: 50 years of history and ties

LAST year, Singapore celebrated the 50th anniversary of its independence. At the Padang on Aug 8, I witnessed thousands of Singaporeans take pride in the many achievements of the city-state. The passing of founding father Lee Kuan Yew a few months before had added an element of reflection to the festive mood. While reflecting on past successes, Singapore was also turning towards the future, and the challenges and new opportunities that lay ahead.

Belgium has been privileged to partner with Singapore for most of that period. On Monday, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our countries. Over the years, a growing number of Belgians and Belgian companies have come to Singapore and, in many instances, have contributed to the development of the city-state.

Our common story starts much earlier, long before either country was established. In the early 17th century, Bruges-born Jacobus van de Koutere travelled to South-east Asia. Upon his return to Europe, he advised his employer, the King of Spain, to build a city on the Ysla de la Sabandaría Vieja, as Singapore was known then, and from there, dominate the trade with China. His advice was not followed, but his words proved prophetic. Two hundred years later, a certain Stamford Raffles came to the region, but that is a different story.