The FINANCIAL -- In view of the continuing repression by the Syrian regime against its population and widespread human rights violations, the Council today reinforced the EU's restrictive measures on Syria.

The Council froze the assets of one more entity that financially supports the regime. At the same time, it ensured that legitimate trade is affected as little as possible. Today's decision brings the number of Syrian entities targeted by an EU asset freeze to 19.

The legal act, together with the details about the entity, will be published in the Official Journal of the EU on 14 October.

Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,commented: "Today's decision is a direct consequence of the appalling and brutal campaign the Syrian regime is waging against its own people. Our measures are not aimed at the Syrian people, but aim to deprive the regime of financial revenues and the support base necessary to maintain the repression. The EU will consider further measures in the light of developments, to support the Syrian people as they seek to decide their country's future through peaceful and democratic means."

Related Stories

• International monitors to pull out of Bosnia's Brcko
• P5+1 making proposals 'of interest to Iran': EU
• Greek euro exit plans 'cannot be excluded': Papademos