15/09/2009 (Agence Europe) - The EU expresses its “deep concern” over the political crisis in Honduras and the ongoing violation of the country's constitutional order. In conclusions adopted on Tuesday 15 September by the External Relations Council, ministers support the Organisation of American States (OAS) as well as the mediation efforts of the president of Costa Rica, Oscar Arias, and invite the de facto government to work on the basis of the San José Accord in order to find a rapid and peaceful negotiated solution to the current situation. The EU27 will continue to restrict contacts at the political level with representatives of the de facto government. EU budgetary support payments have been put on hold. Development cooperation with the de facto government has also been suspended allowing only for support to civil society and humanitarian assistance, the conclusions read. Until a peaceful settlement is found, the EU will stand ready to take further restrictive measures including targeting those members of the de facto government who are seen to be blocking progress on a negotiated solution based on the San José Accord, the EU27 states. (H.B./transl.jl)