Scotland’s leading politicians have joined forces to condemn terrorists who are trying to destroy “the freedoms and way of life that we value so highly”.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the terrorist atrocity in Brussels was “appalling, devastating and cowardly” and said it was important Scotland “show solidarity with the people of Belgium”.
A book of condolence was also opened in the Scottish Parliament following the attacks.
Ms Sturgeon said: “The terror attacks on Brussels were appalling, devastating and cowardly.
“They follow the recent attacks in Ankara and Istanbul and come just four months after the dreadful attacks on Paris.
“Today, we mourn all those who died, we hope for a speedy recovery for those who were injured and we send our thoughts and best wishes to all those affected.
“In doing so, we show our solidarity with the people of Belgium and with victims of terrorism across the globe.”
Other politicians in the Scottish Parliament agreed.
Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale paid tribute to the “heroic” efforts of Belgian emergency services.
She added: “We know from bitter experience that the evil that visited Brussels knows no borders and recognises no one as innocent.
“We also know this: the terrorists represent no religion and no moral cause; they represent only their own perverse and primitive anger against the modern world.”
Tory leader Ruth Davidson added: “As we mourn for the people of Brussels, I hope that we also keep Paris in mind.
“Four months on from that terrible attack on the Bataclan theatre, the city was going about its business. The cafes were back in business, and people were back at work.
“The killers there wanted to halt our way of life and to bring a stop to our civilisation.
“The wounds in Paris will take years to heal for those who lost loved ones, but the killers’ attempts failed.
“They did not win. Paris won. Brussels will win too. The killers are doomed to fail.”
The Scottish Government has said there is no specific threat of an attack in Scotland, but has warned members of the public to remain vigilant at all times.
Security has also been stepped-up at airports and railway stations.
