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Germany condemns deadly attacks in Brussels, tighten security

Xinhua, March 23, 2016 Adjust font size:

The German government has strongly condemned on Tuesday the deadly attacks in Brussels that killed as many as 34 people and wounded more than 200.

Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed great distress and sadness on behalf of the German government and herself for what terrorists had done in Brussels.

The terrorists, Merkel said, are enemies of all the values for which Europe stands today.

"Our dismay is just as boundless as the determination to defeat terrorism," the chancellor further noted. "Our strength lies in our unity. Our free societies will prove to be stronger than terrorism."

Merkel also pledged support to Belgium, saying Germany would cooperate with the Belgian government and security forces in every way to find those guilty for Tuesday's crimes.

In a statement issued earlier on the day, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier voiced deepest sympathy to the victims and their families.

The "murderous attacks" in Brussels, said the minister, were aimed at the heart of Europe and directed towards defenseless people.

Steinmeier expressed the solid support of Germany and Europe for Belgium, saying "Europe stands in solidarity in this difficult time" and would counter terrorism jointly and resolutely.

German President Joachim Gauck has condemned the attacks as a "terrible crime."

"Germany stands at the side of Belgium in the face of this terrorist violence. Together we will defend our European values, freedom and democracy," he said in a letter of condolence to King Philippe of Belgium.

In a press conference at midday on Tuesday, German Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere said his country had increased security in response to the attacks in Brussels.

Germany police have increased security on the borders with Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, as well as at German airports and railway stations, according to de Maiziere.

Officers would also be warned to watch out for attacks directed at them and equipped with robust protective gear, the minister added.

Meanwhile, German Foreign Ministry has told travelers in Brussels to "move around with increased awareness and caution." Endit