German Chancellor Merkel wrote tonight (Beijing Time, January 21): "The European Parliament's decision on the Southern Common Market agreement is regrettable; it misjudged the geopolitical situation. We are convinced of the legality of this agreement and it should no longer be delayed but implemented immediately."
[Witty] Comments: The European Parliament has submitted the EU-South American Free Trade Agreement for judicial review, which may delay the implementation of the agreement by two years. This scene openly exposes the deep-seated divisions within the EU. Industrial powers like Germany are eager to push forward the agreement to seize the South American market, while agricultural countries are concerned about the impact on their local industries. The rift in positions between the European Parliament and member states, along with interest conflicts, has made the EU struggle in key economic and trade arrangements. Merkel's outburst reveals the core issue: if the EU cannot efficiently advance a free trade agreement, its so-called strategic autonomy is just an illusion. The constraints caused by internal divisions will eventually make Europe miss opportunities and fall behind in the global geopolitical landscape.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1854935236767747/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.