The EU accelerated the activation of Mercosur so as not to 'weaken' its 'economic and political position': 'It is a geostrategic urgency'
The EU has prioritized the provisional activation of the Mercosur agreement to enhance its economic standing and counter geostrategic challenges from rivals.
The European Commission's decision to provisionally activate the Mercosur agreement is driven by significant economic and trade considerations, but it is also a political message aimed at Latin American countries involved in the agreement, the United States, and both far-right and far-left forces that sought to obstruct its ratification in the European Parliament. The urgency is underscored by a need to provide tangible benefits to European businesses, workers, and citizens quickly, especially in a competitive global landscape. According to Olof Gill, the trade spokesperson for the Commission, the EU is aware that waiting too long could result in rival nations gaining advantages that could diminish the potential benefits of the agreement. This urgency reflects the broader geopolitical tensions and the EU's desire not to cede ground to other global powers that may seek to exploit delays in the agreement's implementation. The message is clear: the EU is committed to fulfilling its international agreements and enhancing its role in global trade dynamics. The activation of Mercosur is not merely an economic necessity but a strategic maneuver to solidify the EU's influence and economic stability in a world where geopolitical rivalries are increasingly pronounced. The Commission recognizes the importance of asserting its commitments amidst external pressures and ensuring that the agreement serves as a tool for strengthening its positioning against potential threats to its economic and political framework.