Belgium and the Netherlands have one of the closest international relationships in existence, marked by shared history, culture, institutions and language, extensive people-to-people links, aligned security interests, sporting tournaments and vibrant trade and investment cooperation.

After the Allies – chiefly the United Kingdom and France – turned against the Belgian demands, the direct military danger disappeared.

[2] Both countries fought on the Allied side in World War II and are founding members of the Benelux, NATO and the EU.

[6] The Netherlands, Belgium and Germany also unsuccessfully submitted a joint bid to host the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

The Duke of Brabant was invited to attend the inauguration of King Willem Alexander and Queen Mathilde is a godmother of Princess Alexia of the Netherlands.