The European Union (EU) leaders on Monday endorsed the latest restrictive measures against Iran.

The leaders of the 27-member bloc briefly touched upon foreign relations during the summit held in Brussels, mentioning sanctions adopted by the EU Foreign Ministers on January 23 .

"The door is open to Iran to engage in serious and meaningful negotiations, and I confirm the EU's commitment to continue to work for a diplomatic solution, in accordance with the dual-track approach," said Herman Van Rompuy, the President of the European Council.

The Foreign Ministers of the EU imposed sanctions against Iranian oil exports and central bank, a move aimed to ramp up pressure over the country's much disputed nuclear program.

The EU countries' "already concluded contracts" with Iran were allowed to continue until 1 July 2012.

(Xinhua News Agency January 31, 2012)