I would like to express my support to the victims of the attacks of this morning, at the Brussels Airport in Zaventem and in the metro station Maelbeek. My thoughts are also directed to their families and closest.

This attack, without any precedent in Belgium, targeted strong symbols of its capital: its airport and its public transportation network. As a Brussels citizen, I feel an horror that cannot be named.

My greatest recognition goes to all members of the security and emergency force that are heavily mobilised to assist the victims.

I want to address our determination. We will let no one cowardly attack the values of Democracy. Barbarism will be fought continuously. Brussels will overcome obscurantism.

Today, Brussels shows its true nature: an exemplar solidarity through massive blood donations, the gratuity of taxis and the numerous citizen that are opening their homes to host strangers in need on social networks.

Following this morning attacks, public transportation has been shut down and we do everything in our power to reopen the surface network today.

Measures have been taken for the schools to prevent kids and student to go out unaccompanied.

We ask the parents not to show up before end of class day so the kids can stay inside the schools, where they are kept safely.

At 15, I will convene the Regional Security Council which will be followed by a communication. The Regional Security Council will be followed by an extraordinary meeting of the Government of the Brussels-Capital Region.

Fully aware of the gravity of the situation and the violence of those events, I call the Brussels population to remain calm and to avoid all unnecessary movements.