US marks 250th anniversary with high-profile celebrations in Brussels
On Sunday, US ambassador Bill White opened the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States in Brussels' Parc du Cinquantenaire. Several speeches are scheduled, including those by prime minister Bart De Wever, NATO secretary-general Mark Rutte and European Parliament president Roberta Metsola. The event will end with a drone and fireworks display.
White expects close to 9,000 guests to attend the event in the Belgian capital. "8,850 people have registered," he said at a press conference on Sunday, noting that registrations surged after the American country act Zac Brown Band was announced to perform.
Asked about funding, the ambassador said he had raised more than 5 million dollars from over 220 donors. Both American and Belgian companies and private individuals contributed. Sponsors include American multinationals such as Meta, Microsoft, Nike and McDonald's, alongside Belgian names such as Leonidas, Port of Antwerp-Bruges, Sabena, Van Moer Logistics and Sibelco.
When asked whether the event was designed to help repair transatlantic relations, White pointed to the two countries' shared history. "Let's ignore some of the media noise about provoking arguments or highlighting more division than actually exists," he said. "We know we have a wonderful relationship that we must cherish and continue."
The event is causing some frustration among local residents, as the Parc du Cinquantenaire will remain closed from Saturday evening until Monday, with identity checks carried out by a private security firm. A protest was taking place on the other side of the park. "I don't know what they're protesting against, but I'd like to know," White said in response.
© BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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