The Belgian Government has confirmed its commitment to finance 4 million euros ($4,4 million) for structural measures to strengthen the security of Jewish institutions in Brussels and Antwerp.

The confirmation came Wednesday on the occasion of a visit by Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel and Interior Minister Jan Jambon to the Jewish community of Antwerp, accompanied by the city’s mayor, Bart De Wever.

After visiting a synagogue and a Jewish school, the Prime Minister met with representatives of the Jewish community to hear about its particular needs.

Charles Michel and Bart De Wever also laid wreaths at the monument in mémory of the 25,000 Jews deported from Belgium during WWII.

The visit thook the form of an informal walk around the political, economic, religious or sporting Jewish institutions. Michel was able to become familiar with the traditions and customs of the community, a little more than a week before Jews celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

Some 17,000 Jews live in the port city.

The issue of security of the Jewish community was obviously touched. "We invest a lot by putting the military on the streets, but there are still a lot of protective measures we can take. Cameras, secure doors and windows were budgeted for it," Interior Minister Jan Jamon explained.

Structural measures that were taken extend to 70 buildings of the Jewish community. Today, synagogues, schools and community centers are monitored daily by 70 soldiers and 45 policemen. '' We never spend enough to protect the Jewish community but 4 million euros is the amount claimed by the community after consultation with the police,’’ said Charles Michel.

According to the Interior Minister ‘’some members of the Jewish community left Belgium for Israel because they felt threatened. In this case, there is a problem and the government must respond.’’ But he noted that departures have so far stopped. ‘’That’s a sign that our policy works’’, he said.