A delegation from the Belgian Embassy, led by Ambassador Antoine Evrard, visited Tohoku University on June 2 to commemorate 160 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Belgium, and to explore new opportunities for collaboration in research and education.

The visit highlighted Belgium's growing importance as a strategic partner for Tohoku University, particularly in semiconductor research, international academic collaborations and access to European research networks and funding programmes.

Tohoku University President Teiji Tominaga welcomed the delegation and pointed to the university's existing partnerships with Belgian institutions as a strong foundation for future growth. Current collaborations include projects with the University of Ghent through the Centre for Integrated Japanese Studies and joint research with KU Leuven in energy and materials science.

Among the most promising opportunities discussed was potential collaboration with Imec, the world-leading Belgian microelectronics research centre. "We believe that would be a great opportunity as we're very focused on the semiconductor field," Tominaga said.

He also noted Belgium's role as host to major European Union institutions, and a gateway to broader engagement with European research communities. "Belgium is an important partner to us," he said. "We look forward to further advancing cooperation in the future."

Ambassador Evrard likewise stressed the value of strengthening institutional ties, not only through student mobility but also through increased research collaboration. "If you would like to expand your contacts with Belgian universities, please let us know and we can make the necessary introductions," he said. "Belgian universities will be very keen to work together with you."

The delegation's visit began at the laboratory of Professor Makoto Kohda at the Graduate School of Engineering, where members heard about his cutting-edge research in spintronics, quantum information technology and condensed matter physics. The visit highlighted areas of shared interest between Tohoku University and Belgian researchers working at the forefront of advanced materials and quantum science.

The delegation also toured NanoTerasu, Japan's most powerful next-generation synchrotron radiation facility, located on Aobayama Campus. Professor Masaki Takata, President of the Photon Science Innovation Center, introduced the facility's advanced capabilities and its potential to support international research partnerships.

The day concluded with a science, technology and cultural showcase at the Main Library, attended by nearly a hundred students and staff.

Opening the session, Ambassador Evrard reflected on the long-standing relationship between Japan and Belgium. "Although we are geographically distant, we have much in common," he said. "I hope that today you will learn more about our country, discover new ideas and opportunities, and perhaps be inspired to study in Belgium."

Olivier Douheret, Head of the Scientific and Academic Department at Wallonia-Brussels International, presented an overview of Belgian science policy and funding mechanisms. He encouraged researchers to take advantage of Horizon Europe - the EU's flagship research and innovation funding programme - to develop collaborative projects with institutions across the continent. He pointed to Imec's involvement in Japan's Rapidus semiconductor project as an example of successful bilateral cooperation, and identified other organisations such as the Centre Spatial de Liège and VITO as potential future partners for collaboration.

For a change of pace, Tohoku University Executive Vice President Toshiya Ueki offered a historical perspective on Japan-Belgium relations through the story of Mineichiro Adachi. Adachi served as Japan's ambassador to Belgium in the tumultuous post-WWI years, before becoming the first Asian president of the Permanent Court of International Justice.

The programme wrapped up with a presentation by Minister-Counsellor Eduard van Kleunen on Belgium's culture, geography and international role, followed by a lively networking session that highlighted the potential for deeper engagement between Belgium and Tohoku University.