#BEmissionBRA (22/11-01/12) – DAY 5 - The first day of the Belgian Economic Mission in Rio de Janeiro opened with a seminar on enabling the energy transition: the role of ports and the importance of partnerships with industries & policy makers. This important seminar gathered around 200 guests at Casa Firjan.
This day in Rio was also the “Impact Day” organised by hub.brussels at the Casa da Cultura Laura Alvim (Casa G20), the aim of this event is to promote a sustainable and inclusive economic transition by highlighting inspiring examples of collaboration in the social economy and impactful business.
The lunch was the occasion to speak about the Amazon and to valorise the Brazilian local products such as honey and cocoa.
In the afternoon, the delegation visited the magnificent Arboretum of the Botanical Garden of Rio, it was the perfect opportunity for HRH Princess Astrid to take a photo of the trees planted by her great grand-parents during their visit to Brazil in 1920!
During the late afternoon, an official meeting with HE Cláudio Bomfim de Castro e Silva, Governor of the State of Rio de Janeiro was held at the Palácio Guanabara. This meeting was followed by the 2nd official Signing Ceremony of the mission where no less than 10 agreements were signed between Belgian and Brazilian companies and academic institutions.
In the evening, HRH Princess Astrid and a restricted delegation had the privilege to enjoy a spectacular and unique light and sound projection by the Belgian companies Barco & Dirty Monitor on the famous Christ the Redeemer of Rio. This very special evening will remain engraved in the memories of all participants, who will return to Belgium with stars in their eyes.