Belgium : The heart of europe

Aired June 2007

Welcome to Belgium: The Heart of Europe!
When many Americans think of Belgium, they think of delicious chocolates, beer, and waffles! But dig beneath the surface, and you will find a cultural diversity that belies its rather stereotypical reputation. Belgium is also the geographic and symbolic heart of Europe, and is one of the best countries in the continent for investment.

Bordering France, Luxembourg, Germany and the Netherlands, Belgium is an outward looking country heavily reliant on trade. The cosmopolitan and international nature of Belgium makes it an ideal European test market for American products and services.

Both the Belgian government and its citizens support international commercial industries. Its capital, Brussels, is home to the headquarters of the European Union and NATO, as well as hundreds of international institutions, associations and multinational corporations.

And at the heart of this federal country are the Belgians. With three official languages and an intense regional rivalry, its population of around ten million is divided between the Germanic Flemish-speakers and the Latin, French-speaking Walloons. This diversity often leads to political and cultural conflict and is reflected in Belgium's complex system of government and politics.

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

Brussels is the capital of Belgium. It sits firmly in the Flemish north, but is a region in its own right, where the majority of its residents speak French. More importantly for investors, Brussels is best known as the home of the EU. But in fact, the EU neither dominates nor defines Brussels, merely forming one layer of a city that has become a thriving, cosmopolitan metropolis.

French-speaking Wallonia is attractive and competitive, offering an intelligent taxation system and a comprehensive scheme of tailored financial incentives.

Dutch-speaking Flanders has adapted an enterprise culture. Government and industry are placing increasing emphasis on cutting edge research and development. It has a number of exceptionally strong sectors that continue to attract investment from other countries.

Wallonia or Flanders, the choice is yours. The common denominator is a good return on investment.

Belgium is at the crossroads of Latin and Germanic Europe, and is connected to the rest of Europe and the world through a highly developed road, air and sea network.

TRANSPORT

The Port of Antwerp is one of the biggest ports in the world. Transport by inland waterways continues to increase as a reliable and cost-effective means of moving bulk goods within northern Europe.

The country has one of the highest income tax rates in the continent. But residents are not complaining, because Belgium has one of the world’s highest standards of public services, and an excellent road network. Belgium also boasts one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world.

TOURISM

If Belgium's reputation as a tourist destination is a little dim, it's only because its people are rarely boastful. But ask any self-respecting lover of European life and they will say this small country has more packed into its tiny self than many of its bigger, louder neighbors. Belgium wants its visitors to want to go there, rather than forcing them to, something totally in keeping with its modest character.

This is a country where chocolates are a work of art and waffles and mussels have become a national brand. But beer, yes, that golden brown ale, is Belgium’s national treasure. Many Belgian brews hint at trappist monastic origins. Abbey beers are also increasing in popularity worldwide.

Belgium has maintained a low-key approach to all of its international sophistication. It is a nation that seeks to tingle your senses. Welcome to Belgium!