The European Parliament has approved a strongly worded resolution criticizing the Nicaraguan government on human rights and calling for sanctions.

The resolution asks the European Union External Action Service and member nations for "targeted and individual sanctions" such as visa bans and asset freezes against the Central American nation and "individuals responsible for human rights abuses."

EU Parliament member Ana Gomes confirms that the resolution was approved by a vote of 332 to 25, with 39 abstentions. Resolutions of this kind do not set EU policy.

Thursday's resolution came as talks between President Daniel Ortega's government and the opposition group Civic Alliance resumed in Managua.

Opposition delegates to the talks are demanding the release of hundreds of people considered political prisoners.