Belarus Headlines

The Council of the European Union decided to prolong the existing restrictive measures on Belarus until 31 October 2013 due to the fact that not all political prisoners have been released and the lack of improvement with regards to the respect for human rights, the rule of law and democratic principles. However, the Council noted that restrictive measures 'remain open and under constant review'. When speaking at a news conference in Luxembourg after the October 15 talks the EU foreign policy chief, Catherine Ashton, called parliamentary election in Belarus "yet another missed opportunity to conduct elections in line with international standards". She also expressed serious concerns over increased acts of harassment and repression against civil society and political opposition, as well as the diplomatic crisis with Sweden. In its conclusions on Belarus the Council of the European Union reiterated the commitment to the policy of critical engagement, including through dialogue and participation in the Eastern Partnership. The Council confirmed its readiness to launch negotiations for visa facilitation and readmission agreements with the Belarusian authorities which would enhance people-topeople contacts to the benefit of the Belarusian population at large.