EU states its 'deep concern' on Myanmar

EU states its 'deep concern' on Myanmar

LUXEMBOURG (AFP): European foreign ministers expressed "deep concern" on Monday about the "deteriorating political and human rights situation" in Myanmar, and urged authorities in Yangon to "take steps towards democracy and national reconciliation."

"There have been hundreds of political prisoners taken there," said Austrian Foreign Minister Wolfgang Scheussel, whose country chairs the EU.

A statement issued after the ministerial meeting said the EU was "actively considering further political steps to underline its concern."

Britain has proposed that the EU formally adopt London's policy of discouraging tour operators from offering holidays in Myanmar, while calling for an extension of a visa-ban on junta members to cover lower-ranking officials.