EU urges peaceful negotiated solution to Honduran political crisis

STOCKHOLM, July 21 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) on Tuesday called on parties in the mediation talks to reach a peaceful negotiated solution to the political crisis in Honduras.

"The EU calls on the parties in the talks sponsored by Costa Rica to do their utmost to reach a swift resolution to the crisis, as proposed by President Arias. The EU also urges all parties to refrain from any action that might result in increasing tension and violence," the EU presidency Sweden said in a statement.

It pointed out that until a peaceful negotiated solution has been found, the EU will continue to restrict contacts at political level with representatives of the de facto government and suspend its member states' bilateral development co-operation with government institutions, other than humanitarian assistance and emergency relief.

"The EU will also consider further targeted measures," it said, adding that the EU stands ready to contribute to the restoration of the constitutional order and a democratic process.