Luxembourg, April 30 (IANS) The European Union (EU) has decided to renew political and economic sanctions for a further 12 months against those responsible for human rights abuses and lack of development in Myanmar. The EU’s current sanctions against Burma, adopted last October following the brutal crackdown on Buddhist monks who took part in anti-regime protests, include a ban on the import of timber, gems and metals from Myanmar, a travel ban and assets freeze on Myanmar leaders and their relatives and an arms embargo.

The European Union Council of Foreign Ministers after a meeting here Tuesday issued a statement calling on the international community to adopt similar measures.

The EU ministers expressed deep concern by the situation in Myanmar and again urged the authorities to take rapid steps for transition to a legitimate, civilian government and for national reconciliation.

The EU, noted the statement, will intensify its close consultations with memebrs of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) members and other neighbours of Burma/Myanmar, including those that are represented in the UN Security Council.

The Council said it remains convinced that only a process that involves the full participation of all stakeholders in the country, including Nobel laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and ethnic groups, will lead to national reconciliation and stability.

“Thus the Council believes the draft constitution, referendum and elections, as currently conceived, will not address the many problems facing Myanmar,” added the statement.