Belgian Ambassador to China H.E. Dr. Jan Hoogmartens dilivers a sppech at his residence in Beijing on September 24 during the "50 Years Belgium-China: Stories of Friendship" Video Campaign Launch Event. Photo: Courtesy of the Belgian Embassy in China

 The Belgian Embassy in China held a video campaign in Beijing on Friday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations between Belgium and China.

To commemorate the rich and deep connections between the two countries, the Belgian embassy has cooperated with Chinese video platforms to produce a series of videos telling stories about the two countries in the "50 Years Belgium-China: Stories of Friendship" video campaign.

Trailer released during the "50 Years Belgium-China: Stories of Friendship" Video Campaign Launch Event on September 24. Photo: Courtesy of the Belgian Embassy in China

During the event, the trailer of the series of videos and the first complete video, with the theme of Belgian chocolate, were also played.

Speaking at the event, Belgian Ambassador Jan Hoogmartens  stressed the friendship the two countries share, the inclusiveness of Belgium, as well as the hope for more cooperation between the two sides in such areas as travel, culture and  economy.

"Belgium is at a crossroads of Europe where we have the densest transportation system on the continent," said Hoogmartens during the speech.

"Belgium is a gateway to the European Union, hosting a growing number of businessmen, diplomats, journalists, students and tourists at the crossroads of various languages, cultures and outlooks on life."

The embassy said that the series of videos will also cover Belgian elements, such as Belgium's famous beer, professional football experience, famous cartoons and comics, and pigeon racing to name a few.

The above videos will be released on the official Media of the Belgian Embassy in China every Friday until the end of November,  hoping all sectors of society will pay more attention to this event.

When asked about the intention behind the video production, Hoogmartens told the Global Times that they considered various aspects to celebrate before nailing down the idea of making videos.

"We've seen how Chinese have been relating to technology. We noticed that one of this country's characteristics is their keen to and efficiency in using the internet. So we believe that it would be a good idea to play videos online for a broader public."

Hoogmartens then added how the pandemic has impacted travel between the two countries, and the necessity to bring about virtual communication.

"As a crossroads we hold different cultures in this country," Hoogmartens told the Global Times. "We hold no hostility toward China at all. On the contrary, we want more mutual friendship."

Belgium established the diplomatic relations with China on October 25, 1971. The country also serves as an important participant in China's  Belt and Road Initiative.