Brussels: The European Parliament approved the modernised trade agreement between the European Union and Mexico by 479 votes to 119, with 65 abstentions, paving the way for its formal adoption by the Council of the European Union. MEPs highlighted the agreement's potential to create greater opportunities for the agri-food sector by reducing tariffs on a broader range of products. They noted that the complementary nature of the agricultural sectors on both sides had made the agreement less controversial compared to the EU-Mercosur agreement.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Parliament expressed regret over the absence of a dedicated energy chapter in the agreement. They called for stronger environmental commitments and advocated for the Paris Agreement to become an essential element of the treaty during its next revision. EU member states' ambassadors are anticipated to endorse the agreement on Friday, with ministers expected to grant final approval at the General Affairs Council meeting on 14th July.