Belgian monarchy embarks on a journey to Dresden
Visit of the Belgian Royals in Dresden:
The curtains of their Germany tour descended on the Saxon capital, Dresden, as the Belgian royal couple made their way to the microelectronics company X-Fab last Thursday. Accompanied by Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Minister President Kretschmer, the visit marked a significant milestone in Belgian-German ties.
In the halls of X-Fab, Saxon Minister President Michael Kretschmer lauded Belgium's pivotal role in European chip production. "ABSENCE of Belgium, ABSENCE of Imec, ABSENCE of microelectronics in Europe", he declared, highlighting the research center's paramount importance. Imec, a nano- and microelectronics research center based in Leuven, Belgium, has been a key player in Europe's microelectronics sector. Kretschmer emphasized the need for collaboration as an exemplar for future endeavors.
After the enlightening visit to X-Fab, the guests, including the Federal President and his wife Elke Büdenbender, signed the guestbook of the Free State of Saxony at the reopened "Archive of the Avant-Gardes" following years of renovation. For lunch, they savoringly relished ox cheeks and assorted delicacies.
Ushered across the Augustus Bridge by Dresden's Mayor Dirk Hilbert, the entourage then graced the Old Masters Picture Gallery. At around 4 pm, they paid a visit to the Frauenkirche, followed by a Christmassy stroll through the market in front of the church. Amidst the festive atmosphere, they indulged in mulled wine, Stollen, and admired local glassblowers' artistry.
A heavy security presence and city closures marked the day, extending beyond only car traffic and public transports operated by DVB. Key attractions like the Frauenkirche and the Old Masters Picture Gallery were temporarily closed.
The Heart of European Microelectronics
Belgium's contributions to European microelectronics are profound, stemming from its research and development prowess, particularly through institutions like Imec. Here's a glimpse into its history, significance, and collaborative efforts:
Leveraging Crisis to Innovate
In the 1980s, Belgium faced economic turmoil with the decline of traditional industries. In response, the Flemish regional government initiated the Third Industrial Revolution Flanders (DIRV) in 1982, nurturing emerging technologies including microelectronics. This led to the birth of key institutions such as MIETEC in 1984, focusing on semiconductor manufacturing. Despite MIETEC's eventual demise, Imec, another institution founded in 1984, thrived and became a beacon for European microelectronics research.
A Vital R&D Engine for Europe
Belgium, through Imec, serves as a crux of Europe's semiconductor R&D efforts, driving innovation and ensuring competitiveness in the global market.
Overcoming Obstacles Together
To reinforce its position, Belgium must collaborate with other European nations, tackle talent gaps, and attract investments to sustain semiconductor innovation. Belgium also integrates its semiconductor sector with other strategic industries, enhancing its influence in the face of geopolitical challenges.
The Belgian royal visit to Dresden showcased Belgium's significant role in the European microelectronics sector, with Saxon Minister President Michael Kretschmer praising Belgium's absence equaling the absence of microelectronics in Europe. This underscores the importance of collaboration, as Belgium strives to overcome obstacles together to maintain its position as a crux of European semiconductor R&D.
Traveling to Dresden for their Germany tour, the Belgian royals also demonstrated an interest in politics and general-news, making a statement about the importance of international ties and diplomacy in the lifestyle of a modern monarchy.
