Brussels, 21/10/2011 (Agence Europe) - The president of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso, is convinced the EU and Mercosur (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay) will make very significant progress in 2012 in their partnership agreement negotiations, he stressed after his meeting with the president of Paraguay, José Mujica, on Thursday 20 October.
The agreement is a priority for both parties, José Manuel Barroso underlined, saying that the EU and Uruguay consider it very important to strengthen cooperation between the European Union and Mercosur. “We are convinced the association agreement will be crucial for achieving such an aim”, said Commission President Jose Manuel. Barroso did, however, highlight several “difficulties on both sides” when it comes to “sensitive issues”, although he did not give details. The Commission president explained that, if there is an adequate response to these sensitive issues, which are specific, then it is possible to take preparations for the association agreement forward.
Welcoming recognition by the EU of Mercosur as a “fundamental” bloc and acknowledging Europe's “fraternity” with the Latin-American continent, the president of Uruguay said he trusts Mercosur will be able to present a proposal during the next round of talks to be held from 7 to 11 November in Uruguay. He was adamant about the need to obtain a compromise from which both sides will benefit.
José Mujica underlined that Europe would overcome the crisis and that it was necessary to prepare for the future. He explained that Mercosur, which is rich in natural resources, “needs a great deal of investment”. Barroso pointed out that the EU remains the “largest single market in the world”. “The solution to the current crisis is not protectionism. We shall continue to discuss with Mercosur for the benefit of both sides and with respect for the more sensitive issues from both sides”, he concluded. (CG/transl.jl)