Paraguay prepares for EU–Mercosur deal signing: Video
Paraguay is preparing to host the signing of the long-negotiated trade agreement between Mercosur and the European Union on January 17, after the deal received formal approval from the EU and brought more than 25 years of negotiations to a close.
Preparations are underway at the Gran Teatro José Asunción Flores in Asunción, where leaders from both blocs are expected to gather for the ceremony.
Reactions among Paraguayans reflect a mix of scepticism and expectation. Francisco Solano, a local resident, questioned Europe’s motives, arguing that the relationship has historically been unequal. “Europeans were never benevolent with us. They always exploited us,” he said, adding that the EU is now turning to Latin America because it lacks sufficient food supplies. “I think there is a dependency, and they are betting on Latin America,” Solano remarked.
Others see the agreement as an opportunity to expand trade and strengthen economic ties. Paraguayan officials say the signing will be attended by senior EU figures, including Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa, as well as regional leaders from South America. While the ceremony marks a major political milestone, the agreement will still need approval by the European Parliament and ratification by Mercosur member states, a process expected to take several months amid ongoing opposition from European farming groups.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
