Belgium, a small European country with a beguiling medieval air, is beloved on many counts. With the ancient buildings, public squares and marketplaces common to many European countries, Belgium has also its own enduring distinctions. It is popularly known for its long history of specialist lace-making. Its chocolates rank amongst the world's most desirable. Agatha Christie made her personable detective, Hercule Poirot, a Belgian. In recent years, Belgium has produced tennis stars who bring new excitement to the international tour.
In 1896, Baroness D'Anethan, wife of the Belgian chief of mission to Japan, was instrumental in founding Tokyo's English-speaking theater. One hundred and 10 years later, Tokyo International Players still continues.
Since 1953, three Belgian ambassadresses have served as chairwoman for the Cherry Blossom Charity Ball of the International Ladies Benevolent Society. "This is quite an honor for a small country," said Josephine Branders, who makes the fourth Belgian ambassadress to fill the position. She is chairwoman of the 2006 Ball, to be held at the Hotel Okura on April 7 in the presence of Princess Takamado.