The European Union needs to conclude more free trade agreements (FTAs), and more quickly, according to Hungary. In its programme for the Hungarian Presidency of the EU Council, which begins in July, the country states that it wants to make progress in negotiations with trading partners, as well as relaunch negotiations that have stalled.
Budapest also wants to “encourage shortening the time period between the conclusion of negotiations and the entry into force of agreements”. In concrete terms, the ratification procedure should start more quickly once the negotiations have been concluded, a Hungarian source told Agence Europe.
Trade barriers
For Hungary, it is time to ease trade tensions with certain partners. Disputes with China are multiplying and those with the United States are struggling to be resolved.
“Under the Presidency (of the EU Council, editor’s note), we will pay particular attention to avoiding the escalation of trade tensions and we will examine the impact of restrictive measures on trade”, reads the Presidency programme.
This is an ongoing request from Budapest, to maintain strong trade links, particularly with Beijing. A “pragmatic and balanced” approach with China is recommended, according to the Hungarians.
Protecting investments
The Hungarian Presidency is promoting the conclusion of agreements for the protection of investments and the facilitation of sustainable investments. Partners in Africa are particularly pertinent, according to Hungary, which also advocates assessing the potential of agreements with Asian countries.
With regard to the work to be carried out within the institutions to negotiate new agreements, it suggests more regular meetings between the European Commission and the Member States to improve coordination.
See the programme of the Hungarian Presidency of the EU Council: https://aeur.eu/f/crs (Original version in French by Léa Marchal)