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Belgium became independent from the Netherlands in 1830 and was occupied by Germany during World Wars I and II. It has prospered in the past half century as a modern, technologically advanced European state and member of NATO and the EU. Tensions between the Dutch-speaking Flemings of the north and the French-speaking Walloons of the south have led in recent years to constitutional amendments granting these regions formal recognition and autonomy.
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Country
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Surface Area: 30,510 square km
Population: 10,348,276 (July 2004 est.)
Located in: Western Europe
Capital City: Brussels
Head of State: King ALBERT II
Prime Minister: Guy VERHOFSTADT
Independent since: 4 October 1830
Currency: €uro
Flag (image): 
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