European Union ministers meeting in Brussels are discussing possible sanctions against Zimbabwe.

British Foreign Minister Jack Straw raised the issue at the start of Monday's two hour opening session. Britain wants sanctions to be imposed on Zimbabwe if President Robert Mugabe refuses to allow international observers to monitor the country's national election in March.

Possible sanctions under consideration include a freeze on the president's assets and a ban foreign travel by Mr. Mugabe and his associates However diplomats say the European Union is unlikely to impose immediate sanctions.

A spokesman for British Prime Minister Tony Blair said Mr. Mugabe still has a chance to avoid sanctions by allowing international observers and foreign journalists to monitor the March election. He said Britain also wants the ruling ZANU-PF party to end violence against oppositions activists.

Mr. Mugabe has refused repeated international requests to permit observers to monitor the upcoming election.

He has also incurred international criticism for ongoing violence against the opposition, and for his government's moves to seize land owned by white farmers without compensation.

Possible sanctions against Zimbabwe will also be on the agenda when Commonwealth ministers meet Wednesday. Mr. Straw is expected to propose that Zimbabwe be suspended from the Commonwealth.

Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP.

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