Speaking on the one-year anniversary of the Brussels terror attacks, S&D Group president Gianni Pittella said:

"One year ago today, 32 innocent people lost their lives and 340 were injured in the attacks at the airport and metro station in Brussels. This was a terrible and tragic atrocity and our thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones today.

"The terrorists who committed these acts wanted to sow division and hatred in our societies. In this they failed. The people of Brussels reacted to the attacks with bravery, unity and dignity. A year on, the city still stands as a symbol of Europe and its values. As Socialists and Democrats, we will continue to work resolutely against division and hatred and fight to protect the values that this city represents."