Former enemies mark WWI centenary

Former enemies united to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, with Belgium, France, Britain and Germany standing together in a spirit of reconciliation.

Belgian King Philippe and Queen Mathilde welcomed German president Joachim Gauck under cloudy skies for the late-morning ceremony at the Cointe allied memorial, amid pomp and military honour. During the ceremonies, the former enemies sat united, listening and applauding each other’s speeches.

Germany invaded neutral Belgium on August 4, 1914, as part of a planned attack on France. By nightfall, Britain had joined the war.