欧盟委员会表示尽管欧洲议会投票决定推迟 仍准备推进南方共同市场贸易协定的落实

Core Viewpoint - The European Union (EU) is willing to implement a comprehensive free trade agreement with the South American Mercosur countries on a temporary basis, despite the European Parliament's decision to delay the approval process for legal review [1][5]. Group 1: EU's Position and Actions - EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU is ready to take action as soon as at least one Mercosur member country completes the approval process [1][5]. - The EU Council President Costa mentioned that the EU Commission has the authority to advance the temporary implementation of the agreement [1][5]. - The decision to delay the approval process by the European Parliament was made by a narrow margin, which has temporarily halted the approval until a ruling from the European Court is received [1][6]. Group 2: Trade Agreement Details - The agreement aims to gradually eliminate tariffs on over 90% of goods, including Argentine beef and German cars, and is expected to create one of the largest free trade zones globally, benefiting over 700 million consumers [2][6]. - The agreement is part of Brussels' strategy to reduce historical trade dependence on the United States and expand external trade relations, especially in light of tensions during Trump's presidency [2][6]. - Support for the agreement is strong among South American agricultural countries and the European industrial sector [2][6]. Group 3: Opposition and Regional Support - France, as a major agricultural producer in Europe, seeks stronger protections for its farmers and has been advocating for a delay in the agreement's implementation [2][6]. - German Chancellor Merz expressed regret over the postponement of the vote and urged for the temporary implementation of the agreement [3][6]. - The Mercosur region broadly supports the agreement, with its final approval appearing to be a foregone conclusion [4][6].