Belgium - Overview
Belgium is bordered by the countries; The Netherlands, Luxembourg,
Germany and France. The countryside is an eye opener for its
historic cities, castles and churches and the landscape has
many rivers, gorges and plains.
Belgium formed an alliance with The Netherlands and Luxembourg,
which became the Benelux Union in 1958, which then became one
of the foundations of the European Community. Brussels is the
capital city and also the HQ to NATO and the EU.
The country itself is very small but offers impressive attractions,
architecture, bustely nightlife and excellent cuisine. Specialities
include the infamous beer, extravagant chocolates, moules-frites
and Belgium waffles. The country is divided by the Flemish-speaking
north and the French-speaking south. Apart from Brussels, Bruges,
Liege and Ghent are exciting cities to visit as well.
Politically, Belgium has gone through 5 reforms over the years
to evolve into an efficient federal system. In 2005, they celebrated
25 years of federalism. However, there is still a domestic problem
with the tension between the north and south of the country.
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