24 May 2017 | 08:57 AM UTC
Belgium: NATO Summit in Brussels May 25 /update 1
Demonstrations planned May 24-25 as NATO Summit takes place May 25 in Brussels; anticipate heightened security measures and transportation disruptions
Event
The NATO Summit will take place in Brussels on Thursday, May 25. Heightened security measures are to be anticipated at and around Brussels-Zaventem International Airport (BRU) and throughout the city May 24-25. These measures may be strengthen further in light of the May 22 terrorist attack in Manchester, England.
A “no fly zone” will temporarily be implemented May 24 for the arrival of US President Donald Trump, although his landing time is being kept secret for security reasons. The no fly zone will be reinstated later in the day from 17:00 to 19:00 and again on Thursday. Flights at BRU as well as Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) will thus be subject to delays May 24-25. Additionally, airport officials are advising passengers to arrive at BRU earlier than normal in anticipation of increased waiting times at security checkpoints, as well as to arrive via train due to expected traffic congestion caused by the security measures.
Public transportation disruptions and increased traffic congestion due to closed roads and summit-related protests are also be anticipated in the city. On May 24, thousands of demonstrators plan to gather at the Gare du Nord train station at 17:00 before marching via Place Sainctelette and Rue Dansaert to Boulevard Emile Jacqmain. On May 25, a peace rally is scheduled to take place from 07:30 to 12:30 in the area of the NATO headquarters. A separate anti-NATO conference will take place May 25 from 09:00 to 18:00 at the Institut Libre Marie Haps.
Context
The NATO Summit is a gathering of all members of the alliance to examine current missions and discuss future plans. Protests have taken place at past summits to take advantage of the international spotlight. Media sources have reported increased tensions surrounding the 2017 summit related to the presence of President Trump, a controversial figure.
Advice
Individuals present in Brussels are advised to confirm the status of their flights, to allow for extra time to reach the airport and to pass through security, to anticipate transportation disruptions, to avoid protests, and to report any suspicious objects or activity to the relevant authorities.
