Belgium has marked 10 years since the deadly terror attacks targeting an airport and a subway station in the capital Brussels in March 2016. The bombings killed 32 people and injured 340 others.
A group of young Muslim immigrants living in Brussels carried out the attacks, resulting in public resentment against Muslims.
About 500 people, including victims’ relatives, took part in a memorial ceremony in the city on Sunday.
Belgium’s King Philippe noted that Belgians will never forget this tragic day. He said that 10 years have now passed, but for many of those who lost their loved ones, time has not eased the pain.
Participants offered silent prayers and laid flowers at a memorial cenotaph.
A woman in her 30s, who lost her mother in the bombings, said that a nightmare continues to haunt her and she cannot see the end. She also expressed concern that hatred is now rampant across the world.
At the airport which was hit by the attacks, a woman in her 50s said it is very sad, and she still cannot forgive the terrorists. She added that unfortunately, security at the airport has not been improved very much and a terror attack can happen anytime, anywhere.