French farmers gathered in Strasbourg while the EU Parliament is holding a plenary session.
French farmers staged a demonstration near the Parliament, using tractors, with drivers occasionally honking their horns to protest the trade deal.
The trade agreement, which is yet to be adopted, and is between the EU and Mercosur countries, including Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. The agreement dates back to 2019 and includes the establishment of import quotas on certain agricultural products from the Mercosur countries, either duty-free or at a reduced levy. The deal would also provide EU farmers with increased access to South American markets, boosting exports of products such as wine, cheese, and olive oil. Deal has a major focus on agriculture, and recently sparked demonstrations from EU farmers who claim that agricultural imports from South America fail to meet European standards and it is also criticized for being unfavorable for the agricultural sector.
Earlier this year, farmers staged protests across France and multiple Europe countries opposing EU regulations, raising financial concerns, demanding more balanced agricultural policies, and opposing the trade agreement.
France's Agriculture Minister, Annie Genevard, has publicly opposed the agreement, pointing out deforestation and health concerns linked to hormone-treated meat, while President Emmanuel Macron has also opposed the agreement unless South America meets EU standards.
On the other side, supporters of the EU-Mercosur deal argue that it would strengthen economic ties between Europe and South America by eliminating tariffs on exports, particularly machinery, chemicals, and cars, while the EU's official website considers it a win-win for both Mercosur countries and for the farmers saying it is beneficial because it offers opportunities for growth, more jobs, and sustainable development on both sides.
The protests continue while the plenary session is taking place. EU lawmakers will debate on Wednesday (November 27) on the future of farming and agriculture.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Briefing: here are the top news stories for January 18th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Russia and Iran have agreed to intensify cooperation in developing international transport corridors, especially the North-South corridor. The move aims to improve trade flows and create smoother transportation conditions for goods traveling through both countries.
The Houthis, ruling northern Yemen, have claimed responsibility for the seventh drone attack on the US aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman since its arrival in the Red Sea. The group also warned it is monitoring developments in the Gaza Strip.
Azerbaijan's commercial gas production saw a growth of over 6%, highlighting a significant boost in the country's energy sector. This increase contributes to strengthening Azerbaijan’s role as a key player in regional and global energy markets
Azerbaijan has begun the trial of Ruben Vardanyan, a billionaire and former so-called Nagorno-Karabakh official, detained in September 2023 after Azerbaijan’s takeover of the region. He denies wrongdoing and claims his interrogation protocols were falsified.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Briefing: here are the top news stories for January 18th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
U.S. Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus co-chairs honour the 35th anniversary of January 20, reflecting on its impact as a pivotal moment in Azerbaijan's fight for independence.
Thousands in Belgrade held a silent protest outside RTS, honouring victims of a roof collapse. University students demanded justice for the tragedy, blaming Serbian authorities.
South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court to contest his detention extension on insurrection charges tied to his martial law declaration.
Reports of a two-month halt in Azerbaijani gas supplies to Serbia are false. Despite a technical issue at Shah Deniz Alpha, Shah Deniz Bravo ensures steady exports, with supplies set to resume soon. BP confirms no damage or environmental impact.
Coast Guard divers Chuck Fox and Corey Smith from the US Cutter *Polar Star* successfully repaired a leaking shaft in the freezing waters of McMurdo Sound, Antarctica.
Azerbaijan has temporarily halted its contracted natural gas supply to Bulgaria following a technical issue at BP's Alpha platform in the Shah Deniz gas field.
As we welcome the new year, it’s time to focus on species needing urgent conservation in 2025. From delicate lizards to mighty hornbills and massive sharks, all face the threat of extinction.
Over 100 Paris 2024 Olympic medals were returned due to quality issues linked to EU regulations and an untested varnish formula. The IOC has pledged to replace all defective medals.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Briefing: here are the top news stories for January 18th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Thousands in Belgrade held a silent protest outside RTS, honouring victims of a roof collapse. University students demanded justice for the tragedy, blaming Serbian authorities.
South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court to contest his detention extension on insurrection charges tied to his martial law declaration.
After the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a law that could ban TikTok over national security concerns, President Biden stated the final decision would rest with the next president, Donald Trump, who is reportedly considering a temporary delay of enforcement
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Briefing: here are the top news stories for January 18th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
U.S. Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus co-chairs honour the 35th anniversary of January 20, reflecting on its impact as a pivotal moment in Azerbaijan's fight for independence.
Thousands in Belgrade held a silent protest outside RTS, honouring victims of a roof collapse. University students demanded justice for the tragedy, blaming Serbian authorities.
South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court to contest his detention extension on insurrection charges tied to his martial law declaration.
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