EU Council sits tomorrow, more pressure likely on Myanmar

The European Union (EU) is likely to come up with "restrictive measures" against Myanmar generals as the foreign ministers of the European countries sit tomorrow (Monday) in Brussels, reports UNB.

The Foreign Affairs Council of the EU will begin at 9:00 am with a discussion on current affairs, allowing ministers to review pressing issues on international agenda, an official told the news agency.

The Council is expected to adopt a number of conclusions without debate, including a conclusion on Myanmar, the official said.

The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini will chair the council.

Bangladesh is also expecting a 'very strong message' from the EU so that Myanmar creates conditions for the safe and dignified return of Rohingyas from Bangladesh to Myanmar.

"We expect a stronger message from the EU asking Myanmar authorities to take necessary steps to ensure conditions for the safe and dignified return of Rohingyas," a senior official said on Saturday.

Earlier, the EU Head of Delegation in Dhaka Ambassador Rensje Teerink also indicated exerting more pressure on Myanmar so that it acts promptly and creates an environment for the sustainable return of Rohingyas to their homeland from Bangladesh.

"I express the hope that there'll be more pressure. The only thing is to put more pressure on Myanmar," Ambassador Rensje Teerink told the news agency last month.

In October last year, the Council of the EU in its conclusions said it may consider additional measures if the situation does not improve but also stands ready to respond accordingly to positive developments.

However, it is yet to know what the conclusions will contain-whether it will be arms embargo or targeted sanctions on Myanmar government and army.

Diplomatic sources said the EU might take preparations to impose sanctions against Myanmar generals over killings of Rohingya Muslims.

The foreign ministers are likely to urge Federica Mogherini to propose restrictive measures on senior members of the Myanmar military for systematic human rights abuses.

The mass exodus of Rohingya people following human rights violations makes it necessary for the EU to reassess its relationship with Myanmar, said European parliament members after visiting Myanmar last week.

The EU must reconsider its relationship with Myanmar and develop new policies based on incentives and disincentives in each sector, as well as robust conditions, they said in a press statement.