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France
Hundreds of tractors rumble through Paris in EU-Mercosur deal protest
The demonstrations in the French capital came days before the final signing of the agreement, scheduled for Saturday in Paraguay, which would create a free trade area between the EU and Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay.
Europe News
Patriots for Europe to table confidence vote against von der Leyen
Far-right group Patriots for Europe will present a motion of no confidence against Ursula von der Leyen's Commission, disputing the signature of the EU-Mercosur trade deal – but their chances of success are practically none.
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Europe News
Mercosur: How Macron’s domestic weakness undercut his Brussels clout
The French president's failure to assemble a blocking minority against the Mercosur deal underscores how his domestic weakness is undermining his clout in Brussels. By contrast, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Germany have secured an important victory.
Europe News
EU member states back Mercosur trade deal
EU member states on Friday gave the green light to the signing of the Mercosur agreement, paving the way for a vast trade bloc taking in more than 700 million people across Europe and Latin America. France, however, plans to continue its fight against the deal in the European Parliament.
Europe News
Paris to vote ‘No’ on Mercosur, risking major diplomatic setback
French President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday on X that Paris will oppose the Mercosur trade deal in a crucial vote in Brussels on Friday. If a qualified majority of member states back
the agreement, as expected, it would mark a major setback for the French leader.
Europe News
The Commission adds concessions for Paris and Rome to lock Mercosur
From early cash to relaxing duties, the Commission makes tailor-made overtures for France and Italy as Mercosur trade deal enters final stretch. Rome signals it is open to signing it, Paris remains cautious in heated domestic debate with more protests planned this week from farmers.
Economy
Mercosur deal: Von der Leyen pledges early funding for EU farmers
The Commission has offered early access to €45 billion of fuding under the next Common Agricultural Policy budget as soon as 2028 to appease farmers. While France’s backing for the Mercosur deal remains highly uncertain, all eyes are on Italy. Prime Minister Meloni welcomed the proposal.
Economy
EU agriculture ministers to hold crucial talks ahead of Mercosur vote
With the European Commission expected to offer assurances to opponents worried about their farmers, the EU’s 27 ministers will meet on Wednesday for a “political” discussion before an expected vote on the pivotal trade deal on Friday.