The heads of state of Mercosur and the representative of the European Union (EU), Ursula von der Leyen, announced on Friday (6) that a free trade agreement has been signed to reduce export tariffs between the countries that make up these markets. The negotiations had dragged on for 25 years.
The agreement was announced at a press conference in Montevideo, Uruguay, where the 65th Summit of Heads of State of Mercosur is taking place.
In the presence of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva; Argentine President Javier Milei; Uruguayan President Luis Alberto Lacalle Pou; and Paraguayan President Santiago Peña, it was announced that negotiations have been completed for free trade rules among the countries of the blocs. In total, the agreement involves nations that account for more than 750 million people.
The President of the European Commission highlighted that the measure marks the beginning of a new story. “Now I am eager to discuss this with the EU countries. This agreement will work for people and businesses. More jobs. More choices. Shared prosperity.”
She recalled the historical ties between the two continents and that the agreement is a “political necessity” in an increasingly fragmented and tumultuous world.
“In an increasingly conflict-ridden world, we have shown that democracies can support each other. This agreement is not just an economic opportunity; it is a political necessity. We are partners with common mindsets, rooted in shared histories,” Ursula stated.
Source: Agência Brasil