VOICED : Mercosur y UE cerca de lograr acuerdo comercial

The European Union and Mercosur are nearing a new trade agreement aimed at countering protectionism. Jirgi Katainen, Vice President of the European Commission, emphasized building bridges over walls. Meetings with South American leaders aim for a December announcement at the World Trade Organization. Negotiations, ongoing for nearly two decades, are close to conclusion. The EU seeks to promote free trade, especially after Donald Trump's presidency, and has reached a similar agreement with Japan.

What is the main goal of the new partnership between the EU and Mercosur?

• To increase tariffs on imports

• To reduce trade with Japan

• To strengthen their stance against protectionism

• To build more walls between countries

Who did Jirgi Katainen meet with during his visit to Brazil?

• The President of the United States

• The Prime Minister of Japan

• The President of Brazil and other South American leaders

• The Chancellor of Germany

When do the parties hope to announce the EU-Mercosur agreement?

• At the end of the year

• In the next decade

• During the next G7 summit

• During the World Trade Organization's ministerial meeting in December

How long have the EU and Mercosur been negotiating this agreement?

• Five years

• A few months

• Nearly two decades

• One year

What event prompted the EU to push for a free trade policy?

• The financial crisis of 2008

• The election of Donald Trump as U.S. President

• The signing of the Paris Agreement

• The Brexit vote