BRUSSELS
The European Union (EU) on Monday banned the arms exports and the dispatch of mercenaries to the Central African Republic (CAR), which is racked by internal violence.
The EU's ban came after the United Nations (UN) Security Council's decision on December 5 authorizing both the deployment of the African-led International Support Mission in the Central African Republic (MISCA) and the French troops already stationed in the strife-torn nation.
CAR, a mineral-rich landlocked country, descended into anarchy in March, when Seleka rebels ousted Christian President François Bozize, who had assumed power in a 2003 coup.
The months since have seen the emergence of self-styled "anti-balaka" Christian militias.
The EU bans also include financial and technical support to the country. The three exceptions- Micopax, an international organization for the promotion of peace in the region, MISCA and the French troops already stationed there- may receive arms and all kinds of support without any restrictions.
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