EU official breaks down at press conference on Brussels attacks

EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini has broken down in tears in the middle of a press conference following the terror attacks in Brussels overnight.

The Italian politician choked back tears before apologising and breaking from formality to embrace another official at the press conference.

The explosions marked "a very sad day for Europe as Europe and its capital is suffering the same pain that this region has known and knows every single day," she told the press conference in Jordan alongside Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh.

Ms Mogherini said the blasts at Brussels airport and a metro station near the EU headquarters were the results of radicalisation and called for European and Middle Eastern leaders to work together to tackle the scourge.

"We are united in not only suffering... but also reacting to these acts and preventing radicalisation and violence together," she said.

"Being here together is the most powerful message of strength and friendship among our people that we can pass to those who would like to divide us."

"I will stop here. You will understand this. Today is a difficult day."

The former Italian foreign minister was comforted by Mr Judeh before he escorted her from the room.