On Friday, November 15 in Prague, Czech President Petr Pavel became an Honorary Knight of the Knighthood of the Brewers’ Mash Staff of the Belgian Brewers’ Association. This marks the first time in the history of Belgian beer that a foreign head of state has received this honor. This symbolic gesture underscores the growing relationship between the Czech Republic and Belgium, two nations with rich brewing traditions.

The Czech Association of Brewers and Maltsters organized a two-day summit in Prague, bringing together brewing associations and breweries from both countries. Lionel Van der Haegen, also a knight of the Knighthood of the Mash Staff and an active member of the Brewers’ Federation, was present.

The inclusion of Belgian beer culture on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage provides a unique opportunity to explain to consumers worldwide who we are, how we differ from other countries, and other beer cultures. The Belgian Brewers’ Federation has undertaken missions in this spirit, visiting the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Japan, and the Czech Republic.

The Czech Republic is also considered one of Europe’s beer nations, well-known for Pilsner of course. In Belgium, we have a reputation for specialty beers and diversity, flavors, and the number of beer colors. Therefore, the Brewers’ Federation is trying to collectively strengthen the position of Belgian beer.The induction of the Czech president into the Belgian brewers’ brotherhood is part of this objective. It’s a journey to strengthen our ties between the two beer countries, two different beer cultures.