The instrument has been the target of strong criticism and protests by farmers in the streets
The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, will sign the free trade agreement with Mercosur on Saturday, January 17, the European Union (EU) confirmed today.
The EU gave the green light on Friday to advance this important trade agreement with the South American bloc, despite opposition from several countries, namely France, Hungary, Poland, Ireland and Austria.
The result of more than 25 years of negotiations, this agreement is considered by its supporters as essential to stimulate exports, support the continent’s economy and strengthen diplomatic ties in a context of global uncertainty.
However, the agreement has sparked protests from farmers, who fear an influx of beef and other cheap products from South America.
Demonstrations took place in several European countries to protest this treaty between the EU, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, which will create one of the largest free trade zones in the world.
Argentina’s Foreign Minister, Pablo Quirno, had already announced that the agreement would be signed next Saturday.
Paraguay currently holds the rotating presidency of Mercosur.
