European Council takes appropriate measures against Madagascar
LUXEMBOURG, Luxemburg, June 3, 2010/African Press Organization (APO)/ — The Council today has taken appropriate measures towards Madagascar in accordance with article 96 of the Cotonou Agreement (9633/10).
The EU considers the forcible transfer of power in Madagascar on 17 March 2009 a serious violation of democracy and the rule of law, essential elements of the Cotonou Agreement between the EU and ACP states. In accordance with article 96 of the agreement, the European Union engaged in a political dialogue with Madagascar. However, the Malagasy side failed to make satisfactory proposals during the consultations on 6 July 2009.
Since then, no consensus has been reached on the implementation of the political agreements signed by the country's political factions last year. Instead, the de facto authorities have unilaterally announced a roadmap for transition. The EU considers this unilateral roadmap unacceptable and the Council thus decided to introduce appropriate measures and close the consultations.
The measures do not affect humanitarian and emergency aid and certain projects that directly benefit the population. Instead, today's decision suspends all budgetary aid to Madagascar as well as the allocation of new funds from the 10th European development fund. Operations already under way will continue except for activities and payments directly involving the government and its agencies.
Today's measures will remain in force for 12 months. During this period, the political dialogue with Madagascar foreseen in the Cotonou Agreement will continue, in close coordination with the international community, and will be stepped up if a consensus-based solution for a return to constitutional order is reached. In this case, the EU reserves the right to modify the measures and give its support to such developments.
SOURCE
European Council