ALDE Party President Svenja Hahn MEP welcomes the signing of the EU-Mercosur Agreement, creating one of the world's largest free trade areas.
The new trade agreement serves to boost our economy, opening new doors for opportunities across the EU and strengthening our role on the global stage. Hahn believes it is a powerful step towards a more confident and competitive Europe.
At a time when trade is heavily weaponised, Europe is choosing cooperation over coercion. Strengthening reliable partnerships with Mercosur countries lessens dependence on China and the US. Europe's long-term resilience hinges on economic sovereignty.
For liberals, open and rules-based trade is not just an economic tool but a cornerstone of global competitiveness and prosperity. The EU-Mercosur Agreement guarantees that Europe will not allow protectionism to hold back its untapped potential.
The deal ensures a more strategic future for the EU - with access to raw materials such as lithium which boosts clean energy technologies and facilitates Europe's green transition.
Mercosur represents a market of around 700 million people, with over 756,000 EU jobs already linked to exports to the region. The trade agreement supports key European industries such as automotive, chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
This milestone agreement is about ensuring Europe builds its place in the world. It reflects the EU's courage to shape its future with confidence instead of fear.
While the agreement was signed on 17 January, it must still be approved by the European Parliament, EU member states and Mercosur legislatures before it fully enters into force. ALDE Party will continue to strongly support the ratification process and stand up for a trade policy that delivers opportunity and global leadership for Europe.
Having continuously pushed for this agreement, liberals will keep working for a confident Europe that leads through cooperation and a strong rules-based order.