EU axes invites to top Myanmar officials

Brussels, Oct 16 (IANS)   European Union foreign ministers on Monday decided to cancel invitations to Myanmar's top military officials, citing the Army's "disproportionate use of force" against Rohingya Muslims.

"In the light of the disproportionate use of force carried out by the security forces, the EU and its member states will suspend invitations to the Commander-in-chief of the Myanmar/Burma armed forces and other senior military officers and review all practical defence cooperation," the European Council said in a statement.

"The Council may consider additional measures if the situation does not improve but also stands ready to respond accordingly to positive developments," added the statement from the EU's executive body.

The EU foreign ministers urged Myanmar to engage in a dialogue with neighbouring countries, in particular Bangladesh, where over half a million mainly stateless Rohingya have crossed the border since August 25 to escape what the UN has called ethnic cleansing by Burmese security forces. 

"The EU appreciates the constructive role played by Bangladesh under difficult circumstances," the European Council stated.