Austria reiterated its opposition to the EU-Mercosur agreement: “The impact on the climate crisis is a decisive factor”.

The Austrian government renewed its opposition to the agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur countries and asked PortugaFor, who holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, who Avoid “any gambit” to make it easier to vote on the text.

“I ask you to ensure that the vote on a trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur can be conducted transparently, without political maneuvering and with full public interest.” The Environment Party Leader and Deputy Prime Minister writes, Werner Kugler, In a letter addressed to the Portuguese Prime Minister, Antonio Costa.

Also Denounces “possible attempts” to move forwardDespite the reluctance of many member states, Adding a protocol to the treaty, for example, or splitting the agreement to facilitate approval of the commercial portion.

“this is unacceptable”In the letter, the vice-chancellor insisted that France Press agency He can consult on Sunday. “In our opinion, the impact of this agreement on the climate crisis is a decisive factor,” he added.

The Austrian Parliament unanimously rejected the text in its current form, That was signed in mid-2019 between the European Union and the four Mercosur countries (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay) after 20 years of negotiations.

It raises the agreement Criticism from farmers, Concerned about meat production, NGOs, interested in Environment.

Also Eurocamara and countries like FranceAnd the BelgiumAnd the Netherlands Are considered to be a commercial agreement It does not contain enough provisions to protect the environment and prevent deforestation in Brazil.

In August 2019 the French President, Emmanuel Macron She said Oppose “Mercosur as is”. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has also expressed “Serious doubts.”

However, not later than last week, the Vice President of the European Commission (EC) and the Head of Trade, Valdes DombrowskisHe stressed that the European Union remains committed to working towards the ratification of the trade agreement with Mercosur, but is seeking additional improvements on the part of its countries in environmental matters.

“We will continue these commitments to ensure that we can move towards the successful ratification of the convention,” he added. He commented adding that decisions on ‘The exact form of certification’ They are taken “on a case by case basis after a legal examination of the document”.

(With information from AFP and EFE)

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