At a news conference today, following a meeting with Bujar Nishani, President of the Republic of Albania who is paying an official visit to the Council of Europe, Secretary General Jagland expressed his sympathy and condolences to the people of Belgium after explosions in Brussels claimed several dead and many injured. He said the terrorist attacks targeted European values. The Secretary General said Europe has to stand together in fighting terrorism on the basis of human rights and the rule of law. Preventing radicalisation should be a priority and embrace education and working for inclusive societies.
Paying respect to the victims and their families, Thorbjørn Jagland declared 3 days of official mourning at the Council of Europe.