EU renews sanctions against Myanmar

The EU, the statement said, will intensify its close consultations with ASEAN members and other neighbours of Myanmar.

The European Union has renewed political and economic sanctions against the military regime in Myanmar for another year, adding the measures could be increased.

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The EU's current sanctions against Myanmar were adopted last October following the brutal crackdown on Buddhist monks who took part in anti-regime protests.

The sanctions include a ban on the import of timber, gems and metals from Myanmar, a travel ban and assets freeze on Myanmar leaders and their relatives and an arms embargo.

The European Union Council of Foreign Ministers after a meeting in Luxembourg on Monday issued a statement calling on the international community "to adopt similar measures".

The EU ministers expressed deep concern at the situation in Myanmar and again urged the authorities to take rapid steps for transition to a legitimate, civilian government and for national reconciliation.

The EU, the statement said, will intensify its close consultations with ASEAN members and other neighbours of Myanmar, including those that are represented in the UN Security Council.

The Council said it remained convinced that only a process that involved the full participation of all stakeholders in the country, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and ethnic groups, will lead to national reconciliation and stability.