Uruguay exposes differences and does not sign Mercosur memo | world | Pleno.News
Uruguay has not signed for the fourth straight month and laments Mercosur’s protectionism
Pleno.News
7/4/2023 4:34 p.m
Mercosur Heads of State Photo: EFE / Juan Ignacio Roncoroni
In a clear sign of disagreement with the other countries of the union, Uruguay decided for the fourth time in a row not to sign the joint communiqué of the Mercosur countries. The summit of the heads of state of Mercosur took place this Tuesday (4th) in Puerto Iguazú, Argentina.
Without the President of Uruguay, Luis Alberto Lacalle Pou, the document was signed by Presidents Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (Brazil), Alberto Fernández (Argentina) and Mario Abdo Benítez (Paraguay).
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Uruguay laments what it sees as increased Mercosur protectionism and, despite the other countries, is unilaterally negotiating a free trade agreement with China. The country is demanding changes to the internal rules for remaining in Mercosur.
In the joint statement, Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay pledge to discuss changes but make no direct mention of Uruguay’s demands.
The presidents also agreed on the need to create a space for political reflection on the modernization of the bloc, including strengthening the internal agenda for greater integration of their economies, as well as the strategy for international integration the joint statement said .
*AE