EU bans new investment in Syrian oil

European Union governments banned European firms from making new investments in Syria's oil industry and added several new entities and two individuals to a sanctions list on Wednesday.

The sanctions, which will take effect on Saturday if formally approved in writing by Friday by the 27 EU states, also include a ban on delivery of Syrian banknotes and coins produced in the European Union, an EU official said. EU officials declined to name the new entities and individuals targeted, but the sanctions will involve travel bans and asset freezes and prevent EU firms doing business with them. (Reuters)