Council tightens restrictive measures against the Syrian regime

COUNCIL OF

THE EUROPEAN UNION

EN

Brussels, 27 February 2012

6815/12

PRESSE 60

Council tightens restrictive measures against the Syrian regime

Given the Syrian regime's continued use of violence against civilians, the Council today reinforced restrictive measures against the Syrian regime.

Trade in gold, precious metals and diamonds with Syrian public bodies and the central bank will no more be permitted. Cargo flights operated by Syrian carriers will not have access to EU airports, with the exception of mixed passenger and cargo flights.

The Council also froze the assets of the Syrian central bank within the EU, while ensuring that legitimate trade can continue under strict conditions. Finally, the Council subjected seven ministers of the Syrian government, who are associated with the human rights violations, to an asset freeze and a visa ban.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, said: "Today's decisions will put further pressure on those who are responsible for the ruthless campaign of repression in Syria. The measures target the regime and its ability to conduct the appalling violence against civilians. As long as the repression continues, the EU will keep imposing sanctions."

Today's decisions, together with the list of additional designations, will be published in the Official Journal of 28 February.

More information:

Council conclusions on Syria

بيان صحفي من مجلس الاتحاد الأوروبي يعلن تشديد العقوبات على سورية: تجميد أصول البنك المركزي السوري، وحظر تجارة الذهب والمعادن الثمينة مع الجهات الحكومية، ومنع رحلات الشحن السورية من مطارات الاتحاد، وإضافة سبعة وزراء إلى القائمة.