The decision has gained attention due to Lula’s pivotal role in revitalizing the agreement since his return to office in 2023. Brazilian media reported that Lula prioritized a bilateral meeting with von der Leyen in Rio on Friday, presenting it as adequate to signify Brazil’s political ownership of the deal.
Speaking alongside von der Leyen in Rio, Lula called the pact “historic,” stating it would establish one of the world’s largest free-trade areas, encompassing around 720 million people.
Saturday’s signing comes after a decisive political move in Brussels earlier this month, where a qualified majority of EU countries approved the deal for signing.
France, Poland, Austria, Ireland, and Hungary opposed the agreement, with Belgium abstaining, indicating ongoing concerns, especially regarding agricultural imports. To gain support, the Commission agreed to implement additional safeguards that would activate if farm imports from Mercosur increased.
Following the signing, the agreement will enter a potentially lengthy ratification phase in the EU. The European Parliament will need to approve the trade components, while parts extending beyond EU trade competence must also be approved by national parliaments.
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