(VOVworld) – A ceremony marking the 100 years since the German invasion of Belgium that triggered World War One took place in Liège, Belgium on Monday. The event was attended by 50 leaders from European Union countries including French President Francois Hollande and German President Joachim Gauck. The representatives of 83 nations who took part in the war were all invited.

Europeans and representatives from across the globe met in Belgium to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of World War I.

In his speech, Belgium's King Philippe highlighted the need to establish a unified and democratic Europe that acts actively in the international arena. Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo said more time and effort should be taken to foster solidarity among nations and peoples and resolve tensions. EU leaders expressed their hope to use World War One as a lesson to remember the need for peace.