Brussels, Belgium; Ieper, Belgium

On Monday 25 September 2017, at the Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium's Residence, Brussels, the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), and Lady Cosgrove met with the Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium, His Excellency Dr Mark Higgie and received a briefing.

Afterwards, at the European Parliament, Brussels, the Governor-General attended a meeting with the Chair of the European Parliament Trade Committee, Mr Bernd Lange.

Later, the Governor-General, as a guest of the European Parliament, conducted a tour of the facilities and met with staff.

In the afternoon, at Congress Column, Brussels, the Governor-General and Lady Cosgrove, as guests of the Belgian Military Representative to NATO, Lieutenant General Philippe Grosdent, laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Afterwards, at the Australian Embassy, Brussels, the Governor-General, as Chancellor of the Order of Australia, and Lady Cosgrove, presided over an Investiture Ceremony at which the Governor-General invested Ms Nicola Hinder PSM, with a Public Service Medal; Lieutenant Colonel Steven Stockley CSC, with a Conspicuous Service Cross; and Ms Anneke Weemaes with a Commendation for Brave Conduct.

Later, the Governor-General and Lady Cosgrove, as guests of the Australian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium, His Excellency Dr Mark Higgie, attended a reception with members of the Australian Embassy in Brussels.

Then, at The Royal Palace of Brussels, the Governor-General and Lady Cosgrove met with Their Majesties King Philippe of the Belgians and Queen Mathilde.

Afterwards, at Hooge Crater Cemetery, Ieper, the Governor-General and Lady Cosgrove, as guests of the Australian Defence Attaché - Commemorations, Colonel Scott Clingan, visited the grave of Private Patrick Bugden VC and laid a commemorative cross decorated by an Australian student.

Later, at Ieper, the Governor-General and Lady Cosgrove received a briefing from the First Assistant Secretary, Client and Commemorations Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, Major General Dave Chalmers AO CSC (Retd).

In the evening, at the Menin Gate Memorial, Ieper, the Governor-General and Lady Cosgrove, as guests of the Chairman of the Last Post Association, Mr Benoit Mottrie OBE MNZM OAM, attended a Last Post Ceremony where the Governor-General recited the Ode of Remembrance and, with Lady Cosgrove, laid a wreath.