Luxembourg, 23/04/2012 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 23 April, the Foreign Affairs Council decided to “suspend restrictive measures imposed on the government, with the exception of the arms embargo” and material that can be used for repression, “as a means to welcome and encourage the reform process” in Burma/Myanmar. Trade and investment restrictions imposed on more than 800 companies, as well as those imposed on the 52 companies controlled by the junta, the freezing of assets and a visa ban on 491 individuals, including the freezing of assets for 59 companies and organisations, have therefore been suspended. The measures are due to be published in the EU Official Journal on 24 April.
Ministers underlined that the EU “will follow the situation closely… and constantly review measures in an effort to positively respond to progress in the ongoing reform process”. This measure is valid for a year and will be reviewed after six months, in October, explained one diplomatic source. The British minister, William Hague, explained that measures have been suspended and not lifted so that they can be reintroduced if the government goes in the wrong direction. The Council explains that it was awaiting the “unconditional release of political prisoners still detained”, the end to ethnic conflict and “substantial” improvement in access for humanitarian aid.
Ministers underlined the “unprecedented” developments and “historic” changes in the country and said that the EU wanted to “enter active cooperation” to support the reform process and help the economic, political and social development of the country. The Council explained that “the EU will continue in its commitment to dialogue and cooperation with the authorities and other parties involved”. Intervention areas include support for the peace and stability process in ethnic areas, and help with the efforts made by all the different actors in enhancing the rule of law and respect for human rights. Ministers point out that the EU and member states have announced new and substantial funding for economic and social development, democratic transformation and the strengthening of civil society and public administration.
The Council is also looking at whether to grant Burma preferential trade conditions, “with the re-establishment of the Generalised System of Preferences”, as soon as the necessary conditions have been fulfilled. It also acknowledges the “vital contribution” that the private sector is expected to provide for the country's development. (CG/transl.fl)