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

British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw raised the issue at the start of Monday's opening session. The talks end Tuesday. Britain wants sanctions to be imposed on Zimbabwe if President Robert Mugabe refuses to allow international observers to monitor presidential elections in March.

Possible sanctions under consideration include a freeze on the president's assets and a ban on 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 opposition activists.

In Zimbabwe, state radio said President Mugabe has invited international observers to monitor the election, but not those from Britain. Mr. Mugabe said the Commonwealth, the European Union and other groups could send observers - but not Britain, which he has accused of backing the opposition.

Mr. Mugabe has incurred international criticism for ongoing violence against the opposition, and the violent invasions of white-owned farms by pro-government black militants.

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.

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