Ljubljana – The Association of Non-Governmental Organizations for the Protection of Animals of Slovenia has voiced its opposition to the proposed EU-Mercosur agreement, which seeks to remove various trade barriers between the two regions. Both Slovenia and the EU are committed to improving conditions for farm animals and oppose the uncontrolled importation of animal products from distant locations, they stated on Friday.
The European Commission has recently introduced a partnership agreement proposal between the EU and Mercosur, as well as between the EU and Mexico. While these agreements are part of a broader strategy to enhance economic and political relationships, the association stresses the need to consider the welfare of sentient beings impacted by such decisions.
“As we work to elevate animal welfare standards within the EU, these trade agreements that permit increased imports of animal products produced through inhumane practices compromise Europe’s goals for transitioning to sustainable food systems,” they noted.
The Association of Non-Governmental Organizations for the Protection of Animals of Slovenia aligns with the views of Slovenian farmers in opposing these trade agreements. They urge the government to reject the agreement in its current format, insisting that importers of animal products must comply with the same animal welfare standards as those enforced in the EU, and that the EU must implement rigorous oversight, they highlighted. (September 26)
Leave a Reply