Flanders: Ypres commemorates the Armistice of the First World War against a backdrop of conflicts in the world

The Flemish Minister-President, Matthias Diependaele (N-VA), notably performed a piece of the famous poem by Laurence Binyon “For the Fallen“.

Benoît Mottrie, president of the Last Post association, which organizes the ceremony each year, referred to a quote from Albert Einstein, who declared that the world was a dangerous place in which to live. “His words seem more urgent than ever as we witness conflicts around the world” he said.

Many believe we are closer than ever to a third world war.

Benoît Mottrie, president of the Last Post association

“Some world leaders are even hinting at the use of weapons of mass destruction. Many believe we are closer than ever to a third world war. At the same time, we must realize that peace is more than the absence of war. Peace must also allow us to live our lives as we wish, in freedom and security.“