On Wednesday, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium participated in various events in the northern seaport city of Hai Phong during their continuing state visit to Vietnam.
On Wednesday afternoon, the monarchs rode a cable car to explore Cat Ba Island from above before spending time on a boat cruise around Lan Ha Bay.
The boat excursion extended beyond an hour and was arranged exclusively for the monarch, his consort, along with their intimate companions.
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On April 2, 2025, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium arrived in Hai Phong City. The photo was taken by VnExpress/Le Tan |
Lan Ha Bay is situated to the east.
Cat Ba Island
next to the internationally renowned
Ha Long Bay
.
Spanning over 7,000 hectares, Lan Ha Bay boasts around 400 islets, each covered in dense foliage and greenery.
Welcoming the royal visitors, Chairman Nguyen Van Tung of Hai Phong emphasized the thriving relationship and collaboration between the city and the Belgian Embassy, along with various Belgian institutions and businesses.
He pointed out that the Dinh Vu Industrial Zone Joint Stock Company represents the initial and most extensive joint venture between a group of Belgian firms and Hai Phong.
Tung mentioned that the Vietnamese government has sanctioned the creation of the city’s southern coastal economic zone, spanning around 20,000 hectares and adopting a green growth approach. This area will feature a free trade zone equipped with exclusive benefits and regulations, as well as various significant components.
He voiced his desire for the King and Queen to keep supporting the strengthening of bonds between Hai Phong, Vietnam, and Belgium.
The King vowed to keep working towards enhancing collaboration with Hai Phong after his visit and shared his desire for the city’s ongoing prosperity.
On Monday, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde arrived in Hanoi, marking the start of their official visit to Vietnam, scheduled to continue until April 4th. This visit has been extended at the invitation of President Luong Cuong and his spouse.