EU-Mercosur: President Costa to travel to Brazil and Paraguay
Context
After 25 years of negotiations, the European Union and Mercosur are set to sign agreements in Asunción on 17 January 2026, with Presidents António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen participating; the Council adopted on 9 January decisions authorising the signature of the EU‑Mercosur Partnership Agreement (EMPA) and the Interim Trade Agreement (iTA).
Key Topic
The main issue is the formal signature of the EMPA and the iTA between the EU and Mercosur, covering Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay; the statement describes the step as an important milestone that reflects the EU commitment to building partnerships, diversifying trade and reaffirming a rules‑based multilateral order.
What to Watch
Ahead of the Asunción ceremony, Presidents Costa and von der Leyen will visit Rio de Janeiro on 16 January to meet President Lula, followed by the signature event on 17 January.
Sources
Official Documents
- General documents - European Council Statement of 14 January 2026 on travel for EU-Mercosur signature - Delegation for relations with Mercosur EU and Mercosur will sign the EMPA and an interim trade agreement in Asunción on 17 January 2026, with EU leaders traveling to Brazil and Paraguay for the ceremony.
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