President Lula of Brazil issued an ultimatum over the long-stalled trade deal between the EU and the Mercosur bloc. He stated flatly that if the pact is not signed on Saturday in Foz de Iguacu, it will not happen during his presidency.
Lula pointed the finger at Italy and France, blaming internal political issues in those countries for holding up an agreement twenty-six years in the making. He argued Brazil and its partners had already conceded everything reasonable and called the deal more beneficial for Europe. His warning came during a cabinet meeting, where he stressed they had worked to finalize terms and counter global trends against multilateral trade.
He plans to attend the meeting, hoping for a positive outcome, but promised a tough stance if European leaders reject the deal. Lula framed the moment as a final chance, indicating his patience is exhausted after extensive diplomatic efforts.
Lula pointed the finger at Italy and France, blaming internal political issues in those countries for holding up an agreement twenty-six years in the making. He argued Brazil and its partners had already conceded everything reasonable and called the deal more beneficial for Europe. His warning came during a cabinet meeting, where he stressed they had worked to finalize terms and counter global trends against multilateral trade.
He plans to attend the meeting, hoping for a positive outcome, but promised a tough stance if European leaders reject the deal. Lula framed the moment as a final chance, indicating his patience is exhausted after extensive diplomatic efforts.
