Brussels strengthens its leadership position by becoming number one worldwide for association conferences according to the Union of International Associations' (UIA) annual report. Brussels exceeded the previous year's results and reinforced its position as a leader in Europe and the world at large.
The capital experienced a significant increase in the number of association conferences, which grew by 36% compared with 2015. In fact, no less than 906 conferences were held in Brussels in 2016. The Brussels-Capital Region is now closely followed by Singapore in the international rankings. The lead pack is followed by Seoul (526), Paris (342), and Vienna (304). So Brussels has strengthened its grip on the top slot in Europe and the world.
“This progress is all the more remarkable since it occurred against the backdrop of the tragic events of 2016. International associations kept on holding their conferences in Brussels. It is a tribute to the work done by all operators in the tourism industry, “ said Rudi Vervoort Minister-President of the Government of the Brussels-Capital Region.
Brussels offers an array of significant advantages for conference planners. From its favourable location to the presence of a solid network of international associations as well as good meeting site preparation, the Region's reputation speaks for itself.
In conjunction with all suppliers, the visit.brussels Convention Bureau has plenty of expertise to share. It ensures that conferences, meetings, and events are well planned and go off without a hitch. For its part, the Association Bureau assists any international association wishing to set up operations in Brussels and join the 2,000 other associations already present in the capital. These associations represent very diverse industries, which enables Brussels to offer a unique ecosystem, creating jobs and forging relationships that are international in scope.
Patrick Bontinck, CEO of visit.brussels delights in saying: “ The excellent relationship visit.brussels has enjoyed over the years with all industry players has made it possible to host everyone under the best conditions. I am proud of the work done by all conference planners who have not lost confidence in Brussels. The Capital's remarkable capacity to host all kinds of meetings is the fruit of this labour."
Brussels' capacity to hold meetings under any circumstances reassured conference planners, as confirmed by the UIA report Additional information pertaining to the Convention Bureau and the Association Bureau: www.visit.brussels/meetings
Additional information about the UIA: http://www.uia.org/
