Italian PM Meloni Is Concerned About the EU-MERCOSUR Trade Agreement
Giorgia Meloni (L) and Ursula von der Leyen (R). X/ @ANSA_Motori
December 20, 2024 Hour: 7:57 am
The European Union finalized a deal with Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
On Thursday, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to discuss the concerns of Italian farmers regarding the agreement between the European Union and the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR).
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The prime minister focused on the significant concerns of the national agricultural sector in the context of the EU-MERCOSUR agreement, as well as the prospects for the automotive sector amid the environmental transition process.
The purpose of the meeting, held during Meloni’s visit to Brussels following her participation in a European summit on Thursday, was to have an initial exchange of views with von der Leyen after the start of the new European Commission’s term.
The discussion covered the action priorities of the EU’s new institutional cycle, beginning with the need to enhance the EU’s role and competitiveness on the global stage.
Earlier in December, the European Union finalized a free trade agreement with MERCOSUR after 25 years of negotiations. MERCOSUR is a South American regional integration mechanism that includes Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Von der Leyen and Meloni also discussed European migration policy, taking stock of the progress made so far and what remains to be done to develop effective tools for managing migration. A hardline stance against irregular immigration was one of Meloni’s key promises upon taking office. Her policies in this area have shown results, notably reducing arrivals in locations like the island of Lampedusa.
Her proposal to establish two centers in Albania to swiftly repatriate migrants rescued at sea who do not qualify for asylum has garnered the attention of the EU, which is now considering the feasibility of adopting this approach to accelerate deportations.
teleSUR/ JF Source: EFE
