As deadline looms, Brazil to carefully evaluate EU negotiations

06/10/2004 - 20h50

Brasília - President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is reported to have asked that the talks on an inter- regional association between Mercosur and the European Union continue, but also warned that care must be taken with regard to possible concessions. "The president pointed out that the negotiations must not favor any one sector over others. It is the common interest that is paramount," revealed Foreign Minister, Celso Amorim.

The problem is that on October 31, the EU negotiating team will be substituted and that always carries the risk of some renegotiations. At the moment, both Mercosur and EU negotiators are not satisfied with the offers that have been made so far. Renegotiations would inevitably mean further delays.

However, it is possible that Celso Amorim will meet with Pascal Lamy, the EU trade commissioner, some time this month. "We want the meeting. It shows that we are interested in continuing to seek an agreement," said Amorim.

But he added, "The offers remain unsatisfactory. Additional gestures must be accompanied by sustantial improvements. A final agreement would be excellent. But if that is not possible, we leave the door open for further talks with the new negotiating commission," concluded Amorim.

Agência Brasil
Reporter:Juliana Cézar Nunes
Translator: Allen Bennett
10/7/2004