Orsi on Lula’s absence at EU-Mercosur signing: “Any absence does not leave a good impression”
Despite his absence, the signing was hailed as a historic moment in EU-Mercosur relations and an important step for regional economic integration.
Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi expressed his disapproval of the absence of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the signing of the landmark free trade agreement between the European Union (EU) and the Mercosur bloc, which took place on January 17 in Asunción.
Speaking to reporters, Orsi said that “any absence of any of the four (presidents) does not leave a good impression on me. I always want all four to be present for every case.” He added that while the formal signing was done by foreign ministers, the joint presence of all heads of state would send “a much stronger signal”.
Lula — who played a central role in pushing through the negotiations — did not attend the ceremony and was represented by Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira. According to Infobae, the Brazilian leader’s decision not to travel was linked to competing commitments and frustration that the deal was not completed in December, when Brazil held the rotating presidency of Mercosur.
Despite his absence, the signing was hailed as a historic moment in EU-Mercosur relations and an important step for regional economic integration. The agreement, which is expected to create one of the largest free trade zones in the world, covering some 720 million consumers and a total GDP exceeding $22 trillion, still needs ratification by the European Parliament and Mercosur legislatures before it enters into force.
Ceremonial signing and political context
The deal between the EU and Mercosur concluded negotiations that had lasted more than a quarter of a century, amid global tensions over trade and geopolitical competition. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa attended the ceremony along with Orsi, Argentine President Javier Milea and Paraguayan host Santiago Peña.
While leaders from both parties hailed the pact as a commitment to multilateral cooperation and open markets, it faced opposition from European farmers and environmental groups. In Berlin, nearly 2,500 protesters with tractors protested the deal, saying it could worsen competition for European agriculture and demanding stronger protections for the environment and animal welfare.
Orsi described the deal as a “light in the dark” amid economic fragmentation and global trade pressures, although he admitted that Lula’s absence had raised “certain doubts”. He reiterated his belief in Mercosur as a key vehicle for regional integration and international engagement.
Interpretations of Lula’s absence
Lula – who met von der Leyen in Brazil on the eve of the signing – hailed the prospects of the deal but decided not to attend the signing itself. Analysts suggest this may signal tactical differences or frustration over the timing and terms of finalizing the pact.
Orsi stressed that full presidential participation strengthens the political message of such agreements, even if the formal procedures for signature and ratification take place regardless of individual participation. He said cooperation and consensus remain central to Mercosur’s strategy, despite occasional differences in how leaders engage publicly in the process.
Leave a Reply