State leaders respond to the Brussels attacks: Estonia stands with Belgium
Estonian leaders have shared their responses to the March 22 attacks on Brussels' airport and metro system via official statements and social media.
Toomas Hendrik Ilves, President of Estonia
President Ilves shared on his Facebook page, “We are under attack again, right in the heart of Europe. The only response to such petty and deplorable crimes is Europe-wide cooperation in apprehending the perpetrators and dismantling of their terrorist networks. Estonia stands with Belgium. We offer our deepest condolences to all the victims of the Brussels bombings and their loved ones.”
Eiki Nestor, President of the Riigikogu
In an official press release, Nestor stated, “This morning, the terrorists were again sowing death in Belgium. I express my condolences to the families and close ones of the victims, and wish for all the injured to get well soon.
“Terrorists are seeking to change the European way of life and makeup of society in their own image with these explosions. I want to assure you: not one explosion can crush Europe’s belief in a free and democratic society. It is impossible to transform us into a Europe of fear, violence, and lawlessness.”
“Let us refrain from further cultivating the terrorists’ evil with unsubstantiated suspicions and prejudices. It is inappropriate to rely on terror to gain political points. Estonia is a safe place thanks to [the existence of] an integrated Europe, not our switching ourselves off from the modern world. Every remotely intelligent person is aware that the latter simply isn’t possible.
“Today we are all Belgians.”
Taavi Rõivas, Prime Minister of Estonia
In an official press release, Prime Minister Rõivas stated, "We are deeply shocked by the terrorist attacks in Brussels. The only goal of those deadly and repulsive attacks is to spread fear. We shall not surrender to fear, even when the attack is right at the heart of Europe.
“Estonia stands firmly in fight against terrorism with Belgium and the rest of Europe. My deepest condolences to those who lost their close ones. Estonia is with you."
Marina Kaljurand, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Minister Kaljurand shared on social media, "Devastated by the events in Brussels. There is no justification for terrorism.“
Editor: Editor: Aili Sarapik