Brussels, 06/10/2011 (Agence Europe) - The European Union could possibly impose new sanctions over the next few weeks against Syrian individuals and companies, as repression continues in the country. On Monday 10 October EU foreign affairs ministers are therefore expected to discuss a new package of sanctions but no decision is expected to be taken because proposals on these sanctions still require examination by the Council working groups.
Ministers are also expected to discuss the Chinese and Russian vetoes on the UN draft resolution condemning the repression in Syria and threatening “targeted sanctions”. The EU high representative, Catherine Ashton, regretted that the resolution had not come forward and said that the EU would continue to exert pressure for tough UN action and for the Security Council to assume its responsibilities with regard to an extremely worrying situation in Syria. She also said that the time was right for a firm position, which is largely supported by the international community, and which is necessary to help the Syrian people achieve its rightful aspirations. She also underlined the fact that the EU would continue its efforts with its international partners, including partners among countries neighbouring Syria, in an effort to maintain and increase pressure on the Syrian regime.
The French foreign minister, Alain Juppé, declared on 4 October when the vetoes were cast that “this is a sad day for the Syrian people and for the Security Council”. His counterparts, William Hague from the United Kingdom and Guido Westerwelle from Germany, said that the failure of the resolution was very regrettable. This sentiment was echoed by the Turkish prime minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
MEPs from the EPP Group strongly and categorically condemned the “irresponsible action” of Russia, China, Brazil, India and South Africa, following their opposition or abstention during the vote on this resolution which criticises the criminal attitude of the Syrian authorities “which, instead of dialogue, prefer to use lethal force against their own people for expressing their legitimate aspirations”. Mario David from Portugal asserted that “at a time when a 'new world order' is being built-up and when it is expected that the BRICs will assume a new role, this is extremely disappointing conduct”. Russia denied being the “advocate” of the Bashar al-Asaad regime. (CG/transl.fl)