Benelux celebrates 65 years of open borders
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The annual Benelux Day, which is being held in Luxembourg city this Friday, marks 65 years of the free movement of people between Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Xavier Bettel, chairman of the Benelux Union's Committee of Ministers and Luxembourg’s minister of Foreign Affairs, described this milestone as "one of the most tangible achievements that has inspired all of Europe".
The Benelux collaboration, established in London in 1944, paved the way for borderless travel in Europe long before the Schengen Agreement came into effect.
Cornerstone of European cooperation
In 1960, the Benelux countries became the first to implement the free movement of people, thus laying the groundwork for a Europe without internal borders. This principle remains a cornerstone of European cooperation today.
“From an idea to a reality and then a promise, the Benelux has shaped the lives of our citizens, our institutions, and our three countries since its inception”
Following the inaugural Benelux Day in 2024, which coincided with the organisation’s 80th anniversary, this year’s event celebrates 65 years of free movement. The occasion will feature speeches and music on Place d’Armes in Luxembourg city.
Laboratory for innovation
“From an idea to a reality and then a promise, the Benelux has shaped the lives of our citizens, our institutions, and our three countries since its inception,” said Bettel in a press release.
"The free movement of people is one of the most tangible achievements and has inspired all of Europe"
He added, "Today, it continues to be a laboratory for innovation and development for our three countries and for the European Union. The free movement of people is one of the most tangible achievements and has inspired all of Europe.”
Birthplace of Schengen
Francine Closener, president of the Benelux Parliament, emphasised the historical importance of the Benelux Union, noting that it was the birthplace of the Schengen Agreement.
In the press release, she warned against a retreat into isolationism within Europe. “More than ever, we need to reject a Europe that turns inward and defend a continent where free movement remains a fundamental right,” she said.
The event highlights the enduring influence of the Benelux partnership on European integration, celebrating its pioneering role in fostering cross-border cooperation across the continent.
Singing of the treaty of the Economic Union of Benelux, 3 February 1958. J.Bech, minister of Foreign Affairs of Luxembourg, W. Dries, prime minister of the Netherlands, and A. Van Acker, Belgian pime minister © PHOTO BELGA ARCHIVES
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