EU extends Iran sanctions list

The European Union added one person and 18 companies Friday to its list of those targeted by an asset freeze and travel ban, one day before the last round of sanctions takes effect, dpa reported.

The measures are aimed at urging Iran back to the negotiating table over its controversial nuclear programme, which Tehran insists is for peaceful ends.

Those added to the list were "involved in nuclear activities or providing support to the Iranian government," EU member states said. It brings the total to 490 entities and 105 people subject to bans.

On Saturday, the sanctions approved on October 15 will become legally binding upon publication in the EU's official journal. Member states approved the legislation Friday, specifying the scope of export bans.

These include "graphite, metals, key naval equipment and technology for shipbuilding, additional key equipment or technology for the Iranian oil, natural gas and petrochemical sector and software for industrial production."

The sanctions also cover some dual-use technologies used for industries controlled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard or for the country's nuclear programme, and also affect oil tankers and cargo vessels.

In addition, the legislation will specify restrictions on dealing with Iranian financial institutions, which must be approved in advance over a certain transaction volume.


/Trend/