Diplomacy caught the rhythm of the Erik Dalı! The Belgian ambassador danced, and a challenge came from France.

Diplomacy caught the rhythm of the Erik Dalı! The Belgian ambassador danced, and a challenge came from France.

16.05.2026 13:40

Footage of Belgium's Ambassador to Ankara, Hendrik Van de Velde, dancing to "Erik Dalı" in an Ankara style has drawn attention. Following the footage, the French Embassy made a humorous post. The Belgian ambassador was invited to dance "Erik Dalı" with French Ambassador Isabelle Dumont on July 14, National Day.

Images of Belgium's Ambassador to Ankara, Hendrik Van de Velde, dancing the "Ankara air" have become a trending topic on social media. Following the footage, an amusing invitation came from the French Embassy in Ankara. In comments on the images on social media, it was said that the Belgian Ambassador had emerged as a rival to the French Ambassador, who danced the "Erik Dalı" during Bastille Day last year.

"ERIK DALI" INVITATION EXTENDED

Subsequently, a surprising challenge came yesterday from the French Embassy's official social media account. In a post featuring the news image of the Belgian Ambassador dancing the Ankara air, the French Embassy stated, "The news suggests that Belgium has emerged as a rival to France. Therefore, we invite Ambassador Hendrik Van de Velde to play the 'Erik Dalı' face-to-face with our Ambassador Isabelle Dumont at our upcoming National Day on July 14."

"I AM READY"

Dumont also quoted this post, tagging the Belgian Ambassador, and wrote, "My dear friend, I am ready."

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