Source: European Union (EU)7 June 2010, Luxembourg - The Council of the European Union today has taken appropriate measures towards Madagascar in accordance with article 96 of the Cotonou Agreement (9633/10 + COR1).
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, the Malagasy authorities have embarked upon a unilateral transition process and, despite the recent announcement of Mr Andry Rajoelina not to run for presidential elections, the political factions have not been able to reach consensus on the implementation of the transition process to which they agreed last year. The Council thus decided to close the consultations and introduce appropriate measures.
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 implementation of the national indicative programme under 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. Indeed, to end the political stalemate, a new mediation initiative has been launched by South Africa and France in coordination with Joaquim Chissano, the mediator for the Malagasy crisis. They have proposed a new roadmap, inspired by the Maputo and Addis Ababa political agreements. Talks are still under way.
The EU will continue to monitor closely developments in Madagascar and to support ongoing international efforts. The EU reserves the right to revise the measures so as to take into consideration developments in the situation in Madagascar.
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