Restrictive measures against Myanmar/Burma to be suspended

At the meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council on 23 April 2012, ministers adopted conclusions on Myanmar/Burma. They agreed to suspend the EU's restrictive measures in force, while maintaining the arms embargo.

© Fotolia, Floki Fotos

At their meeting in January 2012, ministers welcomed "the remarkable programme of political reform undertaken by the Government and Parliament in Myanmar/Burma, together with its commitment to economic and social development" and declared that a "further easing or lifting of the restrictive measures" might be possible in April.

When ministers met today, they both welcomed a number of concrete steps such as "the overall transparent and credible conduct of the by-elections on 1 April" and pressed for the reforms to continue.

Against this backdrop, the EU would like "to open a new chapter in its relations with Myanmar/Burma". However, some more steps ought to be taken by the government of Myanmar/Burma, namely the unconditional release of remaining political prisoners, the end to armed conflict and better access for humanitarian assistance.

For the time being, the Council will "suspend restrictive measures… with the exception of the arms embargo, monitor closely the situation on the ground… and respond positively to progress".

More information:
Council conclusions, 23 April 2012 (pdf)
Video coverage of the Council meeting
Press conference (video)
Council conclusions, 23 January 2012 (pdf)