Temer defends Mercosur agreements with EU and Pacific Alliance

Cesar Itiberê/PR

 President addresses the LII Mercosur Summit

In order to ensure that Mercosur advances in negotiations with other blocs and becomes a stronger player, President Michel Temer advocated for it to continue to have "better openness" and "always be at the service of the people". The statements were made this morning (18 June) during the 52nd Mercosur Summit held in Paraguay.

The intention of the meeting is to advance trade negotiations with other economic blocs, such as the European Union and the Pacific Alliance - made up of Mexico, Peru, Chile and Colombia. In the president's assessment, these agreements have produced positive results, and Mercosur countries need to act "together" and with openness to keep them coming. "It is indispensable for the competitiveness of our products, for the creation of jobs and income for our people," he said. Temer also stressed that the agreements could result in "more dialogue, more free trade and more investment".

In addition to highlighting trade integration, Temer also argued that the bloc should make efforts to increase a fight against transnational organised crime. "Mercosur can help make a difference in combating this scourge," he said, recalling that South American organised crime has sophisticated techniques that demonstrate the urgency of "developing even more sophisticated responses, more coordinated and cohesive responses".

Temer also spoke about the digital agenda, saying it is an "inescapable" topic, and that countries must continue to work together in areas such as e-commerce, cyber security and digital government.

During the Summit, Paraguay will transfer the pro tempore presidency of Mercosur to Uruguay. Temer congratulated Paraguayan president Horacio Cartes for his leadership of the bloc, and assured President Tabaré Vázquez "the full support of Brazil" to the Uruguayan presidency of Mercosur.