The 21st century is referred to as a maritime century. This is particularly true of Belgium, given that it has one of Europe’s most trade-dependent economies, is home to the continent’s second-largest port and borders one of the busiest shipping routes in the world. However, maritime affairs are rarely addressed in the national political debate. This gap between strategic reality and public awareness has a name: sea blindness.
In an era of renewed competition between great powers, hybrid threats to critical underwater infrastructure and the North Sea that is being transformed by offshore energy and communication networks, this kind of blind spot has real consequences. Small maritime states such as Belgium can no longer afford not to have a maritime strategy.
During this evening conference, we will examine why a coherent and ambitious Belgian maritime strategy is necessary and what form it may take. How can Belgium deploy its domestic resources and international partnerships to build a naval force that better aligns with our interests and merchant fleet?
To tackle this complex subject matter, we are honoured to welcome Mr Piet Opstaele, CEO of Blue Cluster, Navy Captain Kristof Van Belleghem, Chief of Staff of the Belgian Navy, and Dr Bernard Siman, Senior Associate Fellow at Egmont – The Royal Institute for International Relations.
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Registration is required by Thursday 18 June 2026 at the latest.
(maximum capacity: 195)
Evening conference
Why is a Belgian maritime strategy essential?
Mr Piet OPSTAELE (Blue Cluster)
Navy Captain Kristof VAN BELLEGHEM (Chief of Staff of the Belgian Navy)
Dr Bernard SIMAN (Egmont Institute – VUB)
Moderator: Simon VAN HOEYMISSEN
Language : Dutch
Simultaneous interpretation in English
25 June 2026, 17:00 – 19:00
> 16:30 – Registration
> 17:00 – Conference
> 19:00 – Reception
Campus Renaissance
Rue Hobbema/Hobbemastraat, 8
1000 Brussels