Interview: Belgium taking all possible measures to minimize terrorist risks: FM

Belgian Foreign Minister Didier Reynders told Xinhua in a interview late Friday night that Belgium is taking all possible measures to minimize the risks of being a target of terrorist attacks.

"Following recent terrorist attacks in Paris, the Belgian restricted cabinet has agreed to put in place additional important actions to tackle the terrorist threat, while respecting citizens' fundamental rights," said Reynders.

He said that Belgium had already strengthened border controls and deployed military to reinforce security and the new measures will reinforce and complement the already existing comprehensive strategy.

He briefed that new judicial measures will be implemented, such as the 24hrs/day house searches and the revision of the code of criminal procedure.

"Other measures include the deprivation of liberty for foreign fighters returnees, a stricter screening of preachers, and the closing of websites preaching hate. Finally, the use of cameras recognizing number plates will be reinforced, as well as the screening for access to sensitive jobs," said Reynders.

About the control of external border of the EU, the minister upheld that they have to be strengthened, in order to guarantee the good functioning of the Schengen area.

Underlining the role of Belgium in Syria crisis Reynders explained that Belgium is an active partner in the Global Coalition to counter the Islamic State and it insists on the need to establish an inclusive political transition in Syria, a sole military strategy not being sufficient to provide a real answer to the legitimate grievances of the Syrian population.

According to the Belgian government, 400 million euros (426 million U.S. dollars) are being made available for the fight against terrorism, and an amendment to the budget for 2016 will be submitted this week.

The Brussels underground metro and tram network was shut down on Saturday as a precaution, after the terror threat level for the Brussels region was increased to "maximum."

Public transport operator STIB said the closure applies until at least the end of Saturday.

Earlier on Saturday, Belgium's Coordinating Body for Threat Analysis increased the terror threat level for the Brussels region from three to a maximum four, warning of a "serious and imminent" risk of an attack. Endit