Malta has stepped up security at critical points as a precaution following this morning's blasts in Brussels, the Prime Minister and the Minister of Home Affairs have confirmed. Security has been stepped up at the airport and the Valletta sea terminal, among other sites.

He said there is no known threat to the country.

Similar precautionary measures are being taken across the EU.

The eurostar train services between the UK and the continent have been suspended.

London Gatwick and Heathrow stepped up high visibility police presence. There is also a stronger police presence at UK transport hubs.

Belgium deployed 225 troops to Brussels and the French government also deployed more troops to the country's borders and on transport services.

Denmark, Sweden and Finland also said they had stepped up security.

In a statement, the Maltese government said it was deeply shocked by the terrorist attacks carried out early this morning in Brussels.

"The government condemns in the most categorical terms this despicable act and expresses its profound sorrow at the loss of lives and sympathy with the injured."

It urged Maltese nationals in Belgium to abide by the instructions of the Belgian authorities and limit their movements within Brussels.

The Malta helplines are 

Calls from Malta: 8007 2203 (FREEPHONE)
Calls from abroad: +356 2204 2200
Helpline in Brussels: +32 (0) 22 38 36 08