Brussels, 25/02/2016 (Agence Europe) - On Thursday 25 February, the European Parliament adopted a resolution on negotiations for a free trade agreement between Tunisia and the European Union. It also approved exceptional measures for imports of Tunisian olive oil.
The resolution on the free trade agreement was adopted by a large majority and positively welcomes the ongoing trade negotiations with Tunisia. MEPs highlight the economic difficulties the country has had since the recent terrorist attacks there and call for a “gradual and asymmetric” agreement to help stimulate the economy and promote political stability in the country.
The rapporteur, Marielle de Sarnez (ALDE, France) asserted that “The message from the EP is simple. This is not just a free trade agreement but first and foremost, a political agreement”. She added that Tunisia is facing challenges of both terrorism and the economic crisis and “We have a responsibility to defend Tunisians, support their efforts to consolidate democracy, and, through this agreement, contribute to economic development, growth and job creation in Tunisia”.
Trade Commissioner, Cecilia Malmström, highlighted the precautions taken in the negotiations with this country for the still fragile economy. She said that the framework for negotiation would be “asymmetric” and established through “stages” by developing “mutual listening” and accompanying the concessions with “support measures”. She also reiterated the commitment made to involve civil society in the negotiating process.
Support for exceptional olive oil quota
MEPs also supported the EU's adoption of exceptional measures for annual imports over a two-year period (2016-2017) from Tunisia for an additional 35,000 t of olive oil, compared to the quota normally allocated the country (56,700 tonnes/a year duty-free) (see EUROPE 11475 and 11466).
They did not, however, formally conclude the first reading of the legislative text in code decision, in order to swiftly negotiate a definitive political agreement with the Council of the EU. The latter is expected to give its verdict on two EP amendments. One of these amendments proposes to remove from the final text, the reference to a re-examination date (31st of December 2017) and replace it with a possible extension of measures. The other amendment forbids olive oil from being directly delivered from Tunisia to the European market.
The French Liberal MEP indicated “We are now awaiting the response from the Dutch Presidency of the Council, particularly with regard to setting out the 'trialogue' timetable for what we want as a swift conclusion, adoption and entry into force of these measures”. (Original version in French by Fathi B'Chir)