EU considering easing sanctions against Myanmar

With Myanmar’s pro-democracy leader now officially standing in forthcoming elections, the EU is reportedly considering lifting some sanctions against the country.

There was a triumphal atmosphere as Aung San Suu Kyii registered her name on the list of candidates. It was the latest sign of reform in the Asian state that had been governed by hardline military rulers for decades. Suu Kyi spent much of that time under house arrest.

The West sees the partial parliamentary elections on April 1 as a test of the leadership’s commitment to meaningful change.

Washington recently said it would upgrade ties with Myanmar in response to a series of reforms introduced by the regime. Now, Brussels appears set to follow suit.

A European Commission source said the EU was considering dropping some sanctions, though this was still subject to debate among members states.

French media also reported foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton may visit the country.

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