Press Release
☷The United States and Belgium A Key Ally in Western Europe United States Department of State
U.S. Department of State ( By Press Release office)
Apr 04,2024
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Cultural and educational exchanges between Belgium and the United States have further strengthened the transatlantic ties . The Commission for Educational Exchange was established to promote mutual understanding through academic exchange , benefiting numerous scholars , students , and teachers . The economic relationship between Belgium and the U . S . is also noteworthy , with significant trade and investment ties . The United States is the largest foreign investor in Belgium , while Belgium is among the top sources of foreign direct investment in the U . S . The connection between the United States and Belgium goes way back , even before the formation of both nations . American citizens provided aid to Belgians during World War I , and U . S . troops played a crucial role in liberating Belgium in both World Wars . The American Battle Monuments Commission maintains three cemeteries in Belgium as a tribute to the American soldiers who lost their lives . Belgium , as a founding member of NATO and the European Union , continues to play a significant role in global security and multilateral issues . They have actively supported Ukraine against Russian aggression and have made substantial contributions to various NATO missions and the Global Coalition to defeat ISIS . Belgium is also known for its humanitarian and development assistance to African countries and international organizations like the UN . In conclusion , the United States and Belgium share a long - standing alliance , collaborating in various fields such as security , education , and trade . More than 500 Belgian companies have hired around 70 , 000 American workers , making Belgium the fourteenth largest importer of U . S . goods . Research partnerships between Belgium and the U . S . are driving advancements in biotechnology , semiconductors , and other cutting - edge sectors . Belgium has a strong research and innovation ecosystem in key technology sectors , such as biotechnology , semiconductors , and nuclear applications . For example , imec is a leading semiconductor research center that collaborates with businesses in semiconductor manufacturing . SCK CEN , the second largest nuclear research center in Europe , has longstanding partnerships with U . S . counterparts . Additionally , Belgium is home to numerous health and agriculture biotechnology startups due to its robust research and incubator programs . Belgian companies played a crucial role in developing and scaling COVID - 19 vaccines during the pandemic , and continue to lead research in areas such as COVID - 19 therapeutics and resilient seedlings for food security . Clean energy projects between Belgian and American companies are helping combat climate change , while Belgian ports serve as key hubs for global trade . The merger of the Port of Antwerp and the Port of Zeebrugge in 2022 created the second busiest port in Europe . Trade , investment , and research collaboration are particularly strong in sectors such as clean energy , healthcare , advanced technology , and petrochemicals . Belgium implemented an investment screening law in 2023 to protect key economic sectors and critical infrastructure . In terms of law enforcement cooperation , Belgium has made significant progress since the 2016 terrorist attacks in Brussels by enhancing information - sharing platforms , improving traveler screening , passing legislation to aid intelligence gathering , and increasing funding for law enforcement and security ministries . The Port of Antwerp has become a major entry point for cocaine smuggling into Europe since 2016 . Belgium is stepping up its efforts to tackle drug trafficking by investing more in police and customs , purchasing new scanner systems for shipments , and collaborating with U . S . law enforcement . They are also working with the United States to impose sanctions on illicit drugs and supporting joint counternarcotics efforts . In addition , Belgium is part of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats , actively participating in groups focused on manufacturing , trafficking , and detecting emerging threats . Both Belgium and the United States are committed to fighting corruption and are members of international organizations dedicated to this cause . For more information , visit our page on Belgium .
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