August 09, 2008	Saturday	Sha’aban 6, 1429

BRUSSELS, Aug 8: European Union nations have introduced fresh sanctions against Iran over its nuclear programme, including restrictions on public loans and tougher cargo inspections, the EU presidency announced on Friday.

The measures, in line with an agreement by European ambassadors last month, are a robust application of the latest UNSC resolution on Iran.

The UN has called for “vigilance” in entering into new commitments for public-provided financial support for trade with Iran, including the granting of export credits. The EU has gone further by urging member states to exercise “restraint” in its dealings with Iran in those areas.

The decision comes as major world powers are engaged in a diplomatic tussle with Iran over its uranium enrichment programme.

The EU will exercise vigilance in dealing with all banks domiciled in Iran, in particular Bank Saderat. “EU governments will also exercise restraint “in entering into new commitments for public-provided financial support for trade with Iran, notably the granting of export credits, guarantees or insurance,” the French EU presidency said in a statement.

The EU will also “carry out inspections at their airports and maritime ports on cargo going to and from Iran,” with the statement mentioning in particular Iran Air Cargo and the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Line.—AFP