“We want a more modern, dynamic Mercosur that is even more open to the world. But above all, we want a Mercosur that delivers concrete results for its citizens,” he stated at the meeting in the Paraguayan town of Luque, where he took over coordination of the group from his counterpart, Santiago Pena.

He noted that trade agreements only hold real meaning when they translate into economic growth, investment, jobs, and new opportunities for the population.

Orsi highlighted that the signing of the strategic association agreement between Mercosur and the European Union represents one of the most significant milestones in the bloc’s history.

He stressed that one of Uruguay’s priorities would be to advance the implementation of recently concluded agreements, paying special attention to the Interim Trade Agreement with the European Union and the agreement with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries.

He also announced plans to hold the first meeting of the Interim Agreement’s Trade Council and to convene the inaugural Mercosur-European Union Business Forum, aiming to boost investment and strengthen ties between the public and private sectors.

Furthermore, he reported that efforts would be made to finalize negotiations with Canada and the United Arab Emirates, as well as to advance trade agreements with India, Vietnam, and Japan, without neglecting the strengthening of regional ties through the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI).

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