In the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, Belgium has reaffirmed its position as a key player in the development and production of vaccines.
With a unique combination of an advanced biopharmaceutical ecosystem, a highly educated workforce, and a well-established collaboration between public authorities and research centers, the country has played a crucial role in advancing scientific progress and delivering life-saving solutions.
Belgian pharmaceutical companies and research institutions have played a pivotal role in the production of COVID-19 vaccines. Major players such as Janssen Pharmaceutica, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, have been at the forefront in combating the virus. Their efforts have not only led to the availability of vaccines for the Belgian population but also to global access to effective preventive measures.
Belgium is renowned in the pharmaceutical world for its high-quality production and distribution infrastructure. The country is home to some of the world's most advanced pharmaceutical factories, such as those of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Pfizer, making it a hub for the production and distribution of vaccines. These facilities have made it possible to produce vaccines on a large scale and rapidly distribute them to countries around the world, saving thousands of lives.
A long history of scientific research
Belgium has a long history of scientific research and development. Belgian research institutions and universities have contributed to groundbreaking work in vaccine research, laying the groundwork for the development of new and innovative vaccines and medicines. This ongoing commitment to scientific progress has positioned Belgium as a global leader in vaccine development and has contributed to the global fight against infectious diseases.
Additionally, Belgium has participated in international cooperation and solidarity in vaccine distribution. The country has actively participated in initiatives such as COVAX, a global program aimed at ensuring equal access to COVID-19 vaccines for all countries, regardless of their economic status. Through such partnerships, Belgium has worked to ensure that vaccines are available to those who need them most, wherever they may be in the world.
World Expo Osaka 2025
The World Expo 2025 Osaka will revolve around the theme: "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". The main theme will be divided into three sub-themes: Saving, Connecting and Empowering Lives. The Belgian pavilion will be found in the "Saving Lives" district and Belgium will therefore focus on that sub-theme.
The "Saving Lives" theme gives the opportunity to create a broad picture of many of Belgium's strengths. It is an opportunity to tell the story of the innovative nature of our companies, our significant investments in research and development, and our successes in healthcare, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.
The architectural firm that designed the Belgian pavilion had a very clear vision: since Belgium will follow the theme "Saving Lives", they designed the Belgian pavilion around the theme of water and cells, from which life is created.