Highlights

© European Union, 2011

At the extraordinary Foreign Affairs Council on 10 March, the EU discussed the ongoing developments in Libya and the wider region. The meeting was convened by High Representative Catherine Ashton to assess the situation in the area ahead of the extraordinary European Council on 11 March.

In response to the gravity of the situation in Libya, the Council had already extended the restrictive measures adopted earlier. They now include another five key financial entities, whose funds and economic resources will be frozen. An additional name will be added to the list of 26 individuals deemed responsible for the violent crackdown on the civilian population since 15 February and who are subject to an assets freeze.

Ministers also discussed the strategy developed by the Commission and the External Action Service to be put in place to support the countries in the region economically and politically.

"The really big message is to keep the political pressure on, to stop the violence and to move forward successfully in the transition of Libya to a democratic country. It is also important to ensure that we're able to give humanitarian support and are able to deal with the issues of people who are fleeing out of Libya on the border", said the High Representative at her arrival at the meeting.

More information
Libya: EU extends restrictive measures to key financial entities (en)(pdf)
Main remarks by the High Representative (en)(pdf)
The High Representative's arrival at the Council (webcast)