Celebrating 25 Years of Friendship: Zhejiang and West Flanders Partnership

A Bridge of Friendship: Celebrating 25 Years of Cooperation Between Zhejiang and West Flanders

On October 22, 2025, a significant milestone was celebrated in Belgium—the 25th anniversary of the partnership between the Chinese province of Zhejiang and the Belgian province of West Flanders. This special event brought together notable figures, including Belgium's Princess Astrid, representatives from the Chinese embassy, and government officials from both provinces, all united to commemorate a friendship that has thrived over the past quarter-century.

Belgium stands as a vital trading partner for China within the European Union, with Bruges, the capital of West Flanders, symbolically named after the Flemish word for 'bridge.' In 2014, China's President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of EU-China relations during a speech at the College of Europe in Bruges, fostering new energy into the collaborations between Zhejiang and West Flanders.

Throughout the last 25 years, there has been remarkable engagement between the two regions. Notably, successive governors of West Flanders have made a total of 22 visits to Zhejiang, with the current governor, Carl Decaluwé, personally undertaking 14 of those trips. Each visit has deepened understanding and strengthened ties.

This anniversary also marks the culmination of a three-year documentary project that covered an impressive 9,200 kilometers, conducting interviews across Belgium and various regions in China, including Zhejiang, Shanghai, Beijing, and Yunnan. This project showcases the areas where cooperation has flourished, such as ports and navigation, trade and economy, education, healthcare, and technology.

As 2025 not only marks the 25th anniversary of their partnership but also the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, the documentary reflects on the individuals who have navigated challenges to construct a metaphorical 'bridge' connecting China and Europe. For the first time, the Zhejiang Daily Press Group, the Zhejiang International Communication Center, and Focus WTV of Belgium have collaborated to narrate the stories of those involved in this incredible journey—the witnesses, participants, and storytellers.

When the lives of families and individuals intertwine throughout history, they transform into steadfast partners against adversity—truly 'bridge builders' who foster enduring bonds of friendship.

To watch the documentary, please visit this link.

In conclusion, the celebration of 25 years of cooperation between Zhejiang and West Flanders exemplifies the strength of international partnerships, aiming to inspire future collaborations and deeper mutual understanding between these two vibrant regions. As both provinces look forward to the next chapter in their relationship, they remain committed to nurturing the connections that bind them and exploring new opportunities for cooperative endeavors both in trade and cultural exchanges.