"Presidents and ministers of the countries belonging to Mercosur (Southern Common Market) met this Friday in the Brazilian city of Foz de Iguazu, for what would have been the signing of the agreement between the European Union and Brazil. However, the meeting was marked by the postponement of the signing to January 12, 2026, due to pressure from European farmers over lower-cost products from Latin America. Mauro Vieira, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, highlighted in his speech the progress achieved during the Brazilian presidency and the need to sign the agreement. "This period marked a stage of renewed political commitment, the strengthening of our institutions and the deepening of initiatives aimed at economic, social and cultural integration," argued the minister. The Brazilian chancellor also emphasised that the agreement will not only be an economic alliance but also a social and cultural project seeking to bring the societies of the region closer together. "We have deepened initiatives that strengthen the citizen dimension of the bloc, focusing on regional mobility, educational cooperation and the promotion of democratic values and human rights that define our shared identity," said Vieira. The minister recalled the achievements and challenges Mercosur has faced during its more than three decades of existence, as well as the cooperation among member countries where unity has been fundamental. "During these more than three decades, Mercosur has achieved significant progress. It has also faced significant challenges, which have only been overcome thanks to our ability to dialogue and respect," argued the diplomat. Finally, the minister stressed that Mercosur not only seeks trade agreements but also to protect the internal economy, promote industrialszation and employment, a strategy that will be crucial in negotiations with the EU. "Dear friends, during the Brazilian presidency, we sought to strengthen our bloc, which protects us against the uncertainties of the international environment, stimulating industrial activity and generating more skilled jobs," said Vieira. The Mercosur-EU treaty would represent the first trade agreement Mercosur with another bloc and a step toward both regional and global integration. The contentious trade deal was aborted at the last minute by th EU amid chaotic protests by several-thousand farmers in the Belgian capital."