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The borders defining the size and shape of countries were established long ago, likely after much negotiation. These boundaries have remained unchanged for centuries, and altering them would undoubtedly be met with resistance. However, a recent incident challenged this notion.
A farmer residing near the Belgian-French border came across a large rock obstructing his tractor’s path. Irritated, he moved the rock aside to continue his work. Unbeknownst to him, this rock was a boundary marker placed in 1819, symbolizing the border between Belgium and France. By inadvertently moving the rock, the farmer unintentionally expanded Belgium’s territory while shrinking France’s.
Surprisingly, this unexpected turn of events was met with amusement rather than frustration. Officials, like David Lavaux, the mayor of Erquelinnes, and Aurélie Welonek, the mayor of a neighboring French village, took a light-hearted approach to the situation, alleviating any tensions.
Farmer accidentally shifts Belgium’s border with France ? https://t.co/6wZqKnP1uI
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) May 4, 2021
Authorities are seeking to locate the farmer responsible for relocating the rock to rectify the situation. Whether it’s for symbolic reasons or to adhere to legal boundaries, moving the rock back is crucial. Refusal could involve the Belgian Foreign Ministry and potential legal consequences, making it wise for the farmer to comply and avoid unnecessary complications.
