During the opening session of the European Union-Latin America Business Forum in Brussels, Belgium, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva confirmed Brazil’s commitment to the trade agreement between Mercosur and the EU.
The commitment includes adherence to environmental preservation, a significant requirement from the EU.
Lula emphasized the country’s strategy for long-term development based on credibility, predictability, and stability in legal, political, economic, and social spheres.
Despite previous criticisms of the EU’s additional environmental requirements, Lula hoped that Europe and Latin America could showcase a collaborative agenda.
This agenda would prioritize peace, cooperation, increased trade and investment, job creation, and sustainable growth.
Before Lula’s remarks, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the event’s historic nature.
She expressed the EU’s eagerness to strengthen connections with Latin America and the Caribbean, contingent on finalizing the agreement with Mercosur.
She asserted the EU’s interest in investing in these regions, aiming to create beneficial job opportunities.
On July 17 and 18, the forum is attended by representatives from around 60 countries. Lula is expected to return to Brasilia on July 19.
For the full picture, see our Mercosur EU Trade Deal: Complete Guide.