**Pope Francis Embarks on Historic Apostolic Visit to Belgium**

Pope Francis has landed in Belgium, commencing a significant three-day apostolic visit filled with activities and meetings. The Pope arrived at Brussels' Melsbroek Air Base on Thursday evening, following a 55-minute flight from Luxembourg. This trip marks the second phase of his 46th Apostolic journey abroad.

Upon arrival, the Pope was first welcomed by the Apostolic Nuncio to Belgium, Archbishop Franco Coppola, and Belgium's Ambassador to the Holy See, Patrick Renault, who greeted him on the papal plane. On the tarmac, the Archbishop of Mechelen-Brussels, Luc Terlinden, along with a delegation of religious and civil authorities, awaited to extend their greetings. A guard of honour and a military band played the national anthems of the Vatican and Belgium, creating a ceremonial atmosphere. Additionally, a children's choir performed welcoming songs for the pontiff.

This marks the first time a Pope has visited Belgium since Pope St. John Paul II's visit in 1995. Following a short welcome ceremony at the airport, Pope Francis proceeded to the Apostolic Nunciature, where he will be staying during his time in Belgium.

On Friday morning, the Pope is scheduled to pay a courtesy visit to King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of the Belgians at Laeken Castle. He will then meet with various authorities and representatives of civil society, during which he will deliver his first official speech in the country.

A significant highlight of the Pope's visit includes commemorating the 600th anniversary of the founding of the Catholic University of Leuven, renowned for its leading theology faculty. The visit will culminate on Sunday, 29 September, with a Mass at Brussels' Stadium, which is expected to draw a crowd of more than 35,000 faithful attendees.

This remarkable journey to Luxembourg and Belgium marks the initial steps of Pope Francis' noteworthy 46th Apostolic Journey abroad.