Rio, April 5, 2004 (Agência Brasil) - The agreement between the Mercosur and the European Union is closer to becoming a reality, informed the Brazilian Ambassador to France, Sérgio Amaral, who said that the agreement is proceeding according to schedule.

On April 15, the countries from the Mercosur and the European Union will flesh out their offers around the negotiating table.

"If there is a reasonable and substantial offer from the European side in terms of agriculture, I have the impression that the Mercosur can make a good offer in the area of services. With this, we would complete the agreement," the Ambassador observed.

For Amaral, Brazil cannot miss the opportunity to conclude the agreement with the current European commissioners, who have been engaged in these negotiations for several years and will be replaced in October.

Translator: David Silberstein