Brussels, Belgium; Canberra, ACT

On Thursday 28 June 2018, the Governor-General, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), and Lady Cosgrove attended a program briefing with His Excellency Mr Justin Brown PSM, Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg, the European Union and NATO, at the Royal Palace, Brussels.

Afterwards, the Governor-General and Lady Cosgrove participated in a wreath laying ceremony and rekindled the Eternal Flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Later, Their Excellencies met with Ms Christine Defraigne, President of the Senate, and Members of the Parliament, at the Federal Parliament of Belgium.

Then, Their Excellencies met with Mr Philippe Close, Mayor of the City of Brussels, at the City Hall of Brussels.

In the afternoon, Their Excellencies attended an official lunch, at the Royal Palace, Brussels, as guests of Their Majesties King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, King and Queen of the Belgians.

Afterwards, the Governor-General, as Chancellor of the Order of Australia, and Lady Cosgrove, presided over an investiture ceremony for Mr Freddy Declerck, and participated in afternoon tea with staff of the Australian Embassy.

In the evening, Their Excellencies, as guest of Ambassador Brown, attended a reception for members of the Australian-Belgian business community at the Ambassador’s residence.

Earlier, the Administrator of the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia, His Excellency the Honourable Paul De Jersery AC met with students from St Bernard’s State School, QLD; and Galstaun College, NSW as they undertook a tour of Government House as part of their visit to Canberra.