Tougher sanctions

Dissatisfied with the latest round of U.N. sanctions against Iran, the European Union and Canada have joined the United States with their stronger measures against Tehran.

The 27-member EU said in a statement that it had agreed to a "comprehensive and robust package of measures in the areas of trade, financial services, energy (and) transport" with visa bans and asset freezes. The measures are stronger than the fourth round of U.N.-backed sanctions imposed last month.

While similar to U.S. moves, the sanctions could have greater impact since the European Union is Iran's largest trading partner. Iran imports machinery, transport equipment and chemicals. About a third of its exports go to the European Union.

Canadian sanctions will include a ban on new Canadian investment in Iran's oil and gas industries and limits on exporting goods that could be used in nuclear programs. Banking restrictions will also be established.

EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said the action "sent a powerful message to Iran ... that their nuclear program is a cause of serious and growing concern to us."

The international community wants to halt Iran's enrichment of uranium in its nuclear program, which the United States and other nations believe is aimed at developing nuclear weapons. Iran claims it is meant for peaceful, civilian purposes.

Iran denounced the additional measures as confrontational, yet said it was ready to go back to the negotiating table to discuss a plan that might meet international concerns.

It submitted a plan to the International Atomic Energy Agency for a proposed swap of low-enriched uranium for higher level enrichment "without conditions." An exchange would leave Iran without nuclear material that could be used in weapons but sufficient supplies to fuel a power plant or medical research.

Until Iran meets international objections, tough sanctions are called for.