The European Union and Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay) have reached a historic trade agreement after over twenty years of negotiations. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou emphasized the deal's significance as both an economic opportunity and a political necessity. However, the agreement faces opposition from France and other EU member states, raising concerns about agricultural competition and environmental standards. The deal aims to create a free market for over 700 million people and includes provisions for environmental protections. Teljes cikk (Euronews.com)