The bloc expects the long-delayed free trade agreement to be finalized by the end of the year
A free trade deal between the EU and the Mercosur bloc of South American economies, comprising Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, may be finalized by the end of the year, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Monday.
At a meeting with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil, the largest of the Mercosur member states, she said the deal was “within reach,” and that the parties are currently working to sort out the remaining differences.
“What we want to discuss today is how to further connect our people and our businesses, how to reduce risks and strengthen and diversify our supply chains, and how to modernize our economies in a way that reduces inequalities and benefits all,” von der Leyen stated.
“All of this is within our reach if we get the EU-Mercosur agreement over the finish line, and we are committed to…
