BREAKING NEWS

EU agrees to suspend most Myanmar sanctions

LUXEMBOURG - The European Union agreed on Monday to suspend most of its sanctions against Myanmar for a year in recognition of sweeping democratic reforms after half a century of military rule, EU diplomats said.
The decision, due to go into effect later this week, was taken by EU foreign ministers at a meeting in Luxembourg. It rewards a dramatic shift in Myanmar that has seen veteran pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi reelected to parliament and a raft of repressive measures lifted.
EU sanctions have targeted nearly a thousand firms and institutions with asset freezes, and visa bans have affected almost 500 people. The measures have also included a prohibition on technical assistance related to the military and investment bans in the mining, timber and precious metals sectors.
Measures have also included an arms embargo, which is not being suspended.