EU's new sanctions against Syria target Assad's luxury lifestyle

Damascus, Apr 24 (ANI): The European Union has targeted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his family member's luxury lifestyle by imposing a ban on the export of luxury goods to Damascus.

EU foreign ministers have also agreed to ban on exporting any technology that could be used for repression, such as software for tracking dissidents through mobile phone and Internet use.

UK Foreign Secretary William Hague said that the new sanctions came as the killing of pro-democracy protestors in Syria continued.

"Recent reports of the continuing use of brutal military force are deeply concerning and it is vital the EU and its international partners keep up the pressure on Syria until we see a visible and sustained change in the regime's use of military force," The Telegraph quoted Hague, as saying.

"Despite the urgent need for Assad to end the violence immediately, he and his close supporters continue to lead comfortable lives," he said.

"Today the EU has also agreed to ban the export of luxury goods to Syria," he added.

According to the paper, in next 14 days, EU officials will draft sanctions banning the export of caviar, truffles, high-quality wines and spirits to Syria.

Sale of fashion accessories including bags and shoes, perfumes, crystal and silverware, and pure-bred horses will also be banned. (ANI)