State Banquet in Belgium for the Japanese Imperial Couple
Photo: The Belgian Royal House
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde hosted a state banquet at the Castle of Laeken in honour of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan, who are on a state visit to Belgium.
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium hosted a state banquet at the Castle of Laeken in Brussels. The banquet was held in honour of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan, who are on a two-day state visit to the country.
From left: Queen Mathilde, Emperor Naruhito, King Philippe and Empress Masako. Photo: The Belgian Royal House
Several members of the Belgian royal family attended the banquet, among them Princess Elisabeth, Prince Gabriel, Princess Eléonore, Prince Emmanuel, Princess Astrid and Prince Lorenz.
The Belgian royal family gathered with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako. Photo: The Belgian Royal House
Empress Masako and Queen Mathilde. Photo: The Belgian Royal House
The hosts and the imperial guests gathered for the banquet. Photo: The Belgian Royal House
During the banquet, King Philippe and Emperor Naruhito exchanged toasts, as is the tradition at official state visits.
King Philippe and Emperor Naruhito raise a toast during the banquet, with Queen Mathilde on the left. Photo: The Belgian Royal House