Reference News website, January 16 report, according to AFP, January 15 report, after more than 25 years of negotiations, the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR) and the European Union will sign a treaty on the 17th in Paraguay to create one of the world's largest free trade areas. Despite concerns from the agricultural sector, the agreement has still moved forward.
The report said that the signing ceremony will take place at noon local time on the 17th in Asuncion, the capital of Paraguay. Paraguay is currently the rotating chair of the Southern Common Market.
A source from the Brazilian presidential office revealed on the 15th that Lula will not attend the signing ceremony on the 17th.
The source explained the reason for his absence, saying that the event was initially planned for ministers from Latin American countries, but Paraguay invited heads of state at the "last minute."
Paraguayan President Santiago Peña and Uruguayan President Alejandro Torres will attend the signing ceremony. Argentine President Javier Milei may also be present.
The report mentioned that recently in Europe, thousands of farmers in countries such as France, Poland, Ireland, and Belgium have held demonstrations against signing the agreement. To calm the farmers, Brussels has made concessions in recent months, including stronger protections for the most sensitive products.
Next week, European parliamentarians will vote on whether to file a legal challenge against the agreement. This move could delay the approval by several months, but it will not prevent its possible temporary implementation. (Translated by Zhao Ke Xin)
Original: toutiao.com/article/7595817315157934627/
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