Overview
- The European Commission said President Ursula von der Leyen will sign the EU‑Mercosur agreement on Saturday, 17 January.
- The EU authorized the treaty despite objections from several member states, including France.
- European Council backing was reported to have cleared the agreement’s final procedural hurdle.
- Farmer groups mounted protests over fears of increased imports of cheaper beef and other South American products.
- After more than 25 years of negotiations, proponents argue the deal will boost exports, support Europe’s economy and strengthen diplomatic ties.