2024-11-24 07:48:00
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In an interview with La Tribune on Sunday, Roberta Metsola advocates listening and taking into account France’s reservations on the EU-Mercosur agreement in preparation.
Concerns surrounding the EU-Mercosur agreement in preparation, particularly among French farmers, are “legitimate”believes the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola, who judges “crucial to take the time to answer it completely”in an interview with La Tribune Sunday .
“I hope that we will achieve a balanced solution which both protects the interests of our farmers, particularly in the most exposed sectors, and unlocks new opportunities for our businesses”she explains. “Disengaging from international trade would deprive us of an opportunity to export our values and standards. If we don’t get involved, others will do it for us.”she justifies.
France, opposed to the draft text, is trying to convince other European Union countries to reach a blocking minority to oppose its adoption. For the President of the European Parliament, “Whether the agreement is split or not, whether or not there is a majority vote on the text, we must not isolate member states. Because we cannot say to a country distraught by the decline of a sector and which feels abandoned: “Sorry, but we will not listen to you!”.
Unfair competition
Farmers in France have relaunched their mobilization, less than a year after a historic revolt, to protest in particular against the free trade agreement with Mercosur that the European Commission, pushed by countries like Germany and Spain , seems determined to sign before the end of the year.
In their eyes, this text would lead to unfair competition, notably with a surge of Argentinian or Brazilian meat not subject to the strict health and environmental standards of the European Union.
The French political class, with rare unanimity, supports this opposition and President Emmanuel Macron has constantly insisted, throughout a tour of South America, that he refuses the agreement “as is”.
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What are the key concerns surrounding the EU-Mercosur agreement that Roberta Metsola believes need to be addressed?
**Interview with Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament**
**Interviewer:** Good morning, Ms. Metsola. Thank you for joining us today.
**Roberta Metsola:** Good morning! Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** In a recent interview with *La Tribune Sunday*, you mentioned that the concerns surrounding the EU-Mercosur agreement are “legitimate.” Could you elaborate on why it’s crucial to thoroughly address these concerns?
**Roberta Metsola:** Absolutely. I believe it is crucial to take the time to answer these concerns completely. The doubts expressed by French farmers and other stakeholders are not only valid but also highlight the need for a balanced approach as we consider this agreement. Listening to these voices can help us navigate potential impacts on our sectors.
**Interviewer:** You also mentioned the importance of protecting the interests of farmers. How do you envision achieving a solution that benefits both farmers and businesses?
**Roberta Metsola:** I hope that we can strike a balance that protects our farmers, especially those in the most vulnerable sectors while also unlocking new opportunities for our businesses. We need to ensure that any trade agreements respect our values and standards. Disengaging from international trade would mean losing the chance to promote these principles on a global scale.
**Interviewer:** Some critics argue that engaging in international trade could undermine local markets. How do you respond to these concerns?
**Roberta Metsola:** That is a valid concern. However, if we choose not to engage, we risk allowing others to dictate the terms in our absence. It’s about finding a path where we can compete while ensuring that we don’t compromise our agricultural integrity.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Ms. Metsola. It seems that a thoughtful dialog will be essential moving forward.
**Roberta Metsola:** Exactly. Engaging in discussions and addressing concerns head-on will enable us to forge agreements that are not only beneficial but also sustainable for future generations. Thank you!
