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Foreign Minister Steinmeier condemns attacks in Brussels
Flags in Brussels on half-mast, © photothek.net
Speaking both as Foreign Minister of Germany and as Chairperson-in‑Office of the Organization for Security and Co‑operation in Europe (OSCE), Frank‑Walter Steinmeier issued the following statement in response to the attacks in Brussels which have, according to media reports, claimed many lives and left a large number of people injured:
I condemn the deadly attacks in Brussels in the strongest possible terms. They were intended to strike at the heart of Europe and, with criminal malice, targeted defenceless people.
At this sombre time, Europe stands united in solidarity. Belgium is not alone. Our Belgian friends can rely on solid support from Germany and Europe. We are united and resolute in our opposition to terrorism.
Our thoughts are with our Belgian neighbours. We offer our heartfelt sympathy to the victims and their families.
The German Government’s crisis unit convened immediately at the Federal Foreign Office. The crisis unit and our Embassy in Brussels are in close contact with the Belgian authorities.
We call on all travellers currently in Brussels to take the greatest possible care, and we urge them to keep themselves informed about the situation and refer to the travel and security advice issued by the Federal Foreign Office.
