The Council of the European Union adopted two decisions authorising the signature of the EU-Mercosur Partnership Agreement (EMPA) and of the Interim Trade Agreement (iTA) between the EU and Mercosur. Together, these agreements mark an important milestone in the EU’s long-standing relationship with Mercosur partners – Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. Once in force, they will establish a framework for political dialogue, cooperation and trade relations within a modernised and comprehensive partnership.
The agreements will require the consent of the European Parliament before they can be formally concluded by the Council as well as ratification by all EU member states to enter into force. Read more.