Brussels, 31/05/2012 (Agence Europe) - Talks on a bilateral complete economic and trade agreement (CETA) between the EU and Canada, opened in 2009, are now entering their final phase. Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht is “confident” the agreement will be concluded before the end of this year.
De Gucht briefed European trade ministers, meeting in Brussels on 31 May, of progress made since the spring in free-trade talks with Canada.
The final negotiation package, though reduced, refers to important issues for the EU as they affect its offensive interests, says a paper on the state of negotiations, a copy of which has been obtained by EUROPE. Remaining to be settled is, in particular, the complex matter of rules of origin. Similarly, four points remain outstanding in the strand on services and investment, where significant progress has been made. Despite a solid offer on the part of the Canadians, important elements remain to be resolved, too, in the strand on public procurement. EU and Canadian negotiators will meet again on 4 June, in Ottawa, then in July and September. (EH/transl.rt)