Picardo writes to Belgian PM: the Belgian flag will fly from No 6 Convent Place at half-mast alongside the Gibraltar flag and the Union Jack; and Moorish Castle will be lit in the colours of the Belgian flag.

Following the horrific and barbaric attacks perpetrated in Brussels today (March 22nd 2016) the Chief Minister, the Hon Fabian Picardo QC, has written a letter of condolence on behalf of the people of Gibraltar to the Belgian Prime Minister, M. Charles Michel.

In the letter, the Chief Minister describes the attacks as ‘senseless murders’ and recalled that, like Gibraltar, Belgium is also a multi-faith and multicultural society of which to be proud.

“Our thoughts and sympathy are with you and all the Belgian nation in the aftermath of this assault on the culture, values, and way of life that we all hold dear. Belgium, like Gibraltar, is a multi-faith and multicultural society to be proud of. As an attack on the very heart of the European Union we are deeply affected by these tragic events,” Mr Picardo said in his letter.

“Gibraltar, its People and Government, stand with you in unity and solidarity at this painful time. Our staff at the Gibraltar Office in Square Ambiorix are safe but were deeply affected by the incident and also share in the sincere condolences of our people.”

From Wednesday morning, No 6 will fly the Belgian flag at half-mast. Flags on all Government buildings will also fly at half-mast in tribute and in respect for the victims. Moorish Castle will be lit in the colours of the Belgian flag as a sign of solidarity with the people of Belgium.