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 up high, followed by a boat excursion around Lan Ha Bay.
The boat journey exceeded an hour and was arranged exclusively for the monarch, his consort, along with their intimate circle of companions.
|
|
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 encompasses roughly 400 islands, each covered with dense foliage and plants.
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 adhering to a green growth approach. This area will feature a free trade zone equipped with specific benefits and regulations, as well as various significant components.
He voiced his wish for the King and Queen to keep supporting the strengthening of relations between Hai Phong, Vietnam, and Belgium.
The King pledged to continue efforts to further strengthen cooperation with Hai Phong following his visit, and expressed his wish for the city’s continued success.
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde arrived in Hanoi on Monday, beginning their state visit to Vietnam, which will last until April 4, at the invitation of President Luong Cuong and his wife.