Belgian King and Queen Visit Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay

On their official visit to Vietnam, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium made a remarkable stop at Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay in Hai Phong. Their visit highlights the growing ties between Belgium and Vietnam, especially in areas of environmental protection and sustainable tourism.

Cat Ba Island, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning seascapes, lies at the heart of the Cat Ba Archipelago Biosphere Reserve. The royal couple explored the area’s natural beauty, taking in the limestone karsts, pristine beaches, and tranquil waters that make Lan Ha Bay a hidden gem next to the more famous Ha Long Bay.

During their visit, the King and Queen learned about local conservation efforts, including community-led initiatives to protect coral reefs, marine life, and endangered species. They also met with Vietnamese officials and local residents to discuss sustainable tourism and ecological preservation—two fields where Belgium and Vietnam hope to deepen cooperation.

The presence of the Belgian royals in Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay brought international attention to this lesser-known destination, promoting it as a model for eco-friendly tourism in Southeast Asia.

As Vietnam continues to develop its tourism sector, the visit serves as a strong message about the importance of balancing development with environmental stewardship.