The European Parliament's decision to subject the EU-Mercosur deal to judicial review has sparked a sharp reaction in Germany.
Foreign Minister Johann Wadeful described the vote as a “seriously wrong decision from a geostrategic point of view“ and warned of delays, loss of trust and negative consequences for the EU's position in the world.
According to Wadeful, the decision was adopted by a narrow majority, in which MEPs who voted with far-right parties played a decisive role. We recall that out of 10 votes against, 7 were by Bulgarian MEPs. This, he said, is a “heavy blow“ for Europe and undermines trust in the EU as reliable partner.
The EU-Mercosur agreement is supposed to create a free trade area of over 700 million people, eliminating tariffs and facilitating exports. Mercosur countries expect a rise in agricultural exports, while European economies would benefit from easier access for cars, machinery, cheeses and wines.
Vadeful stressed that the vote passed with the support of far-right forces and called what happened a “lesson”, especially for parties that publicly defend a cordon sanitaire against extremism. He called for such decisions not to be repeated. Criticism also came from other parties.
Former European Parliament President Martin Schulz described the blocking of the agreement as contrary to the interests of the EU. And former German Minister Cem Özdemir warned that Europe risks losing credibility if, after 25 years of negotiations, it is unable to implement agreed upon.
The agreement is also seen as a strategic signal against the protectionist trade policies of US President Donald Trump.