EU and Mercosur: Provisional Application of Agreement on Track

The Council of the European Union has approved the authorization for the signing and provisional application of the free trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur.

European Council President António Costa stated that the decision has been made at the Council level and called on the European Commission to proceed with the implementation of the agreement.

However, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen clarified that the formal decision will only be activated when one or more Mercosur states complete their internal ratification procedures and declare readiness.

The agreement is considered important for diversifying supply chains, improving access to raw materials and markets, and strengthening the EU's strategic and geoeconomic autonomy.

European capitals appear determined to proceed, considering the agreement with Mercosur a pivotal link in the Union's new trade and geopolitical strategy.