Summary
EU lawmakers voted to pause the approval of a trade deal between the EU and the Mercosur group of South American countries due to legal concerns. The agreement will be reviewed by Europe's top court to ensure it aligns with EU treaties. Until the court rules, the agreement cannot be ratified, although it can be applied temporarily.
Key Facts
- EU lawmakers voted 334 in favor, 324 against, with 11 abstentions to delay the trade deal.
- The deal aims to create a large free trade zone by eliminating over 90% of tariffs between the regions.
- The agreement was a priority for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
- France expressed concerns about protecting its farmers and supported the delay.
- The European Court of Justice will determine if the deal aligns with EU treaties.
- The EU's executive branch can use the deal temporarily while legal issues are reviewed.
- Mercosur includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, with Bolivia possibly joining in the future.
- EU leaders will discuss the next steps in an emergency summit.
