175 Years of diplomatic relations and 400 years of people-people relations was celebrated on April 8 with a moving film and exhibit entitled "From Explorer Ships to Partnerships: A Voyage through 175 Years of US-Belgian Relations".

Co-hosted by U.S. Ambassador to Belgium Sam Fox and Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs Karel De Gucht the evening began with speeches by the two co-hosts.

They were followed by the PD-sponsored 20 min film "An Invisable Bridge" showing the highlights of 400 years of interwoven history from the founding of New Netherlands/Nova Belgica, through missionaries like Father Damien, to immigration via the port of Antwerp, the world wars and partnerships today in peace-keeping, scientific research, business and exchanges.