Informal Meeting of EU Trade Ministers Held in Sofia

Ministers responsible for trade in the European Union gathered at an informal meeting in Sofia on 27^th of February. The European Commission is represented by the Commissioner for Trade Ms. Cecilia Malmström.

The main priorities that will be discussed by the ministers of the economy of all the EU Member States include free market for expansion of trade and for more loyal competition. This informal council is taking place at a crucial moment for Europe, when the signing of an agreement on foreign trade relations with Mexico and the MERCOSUR countries - Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and Venezuela - is soon to come.

“We are still waiting if President Trump will take any measures,” Cecilia Malmström, EU Commissioner for Trade said. “We are discussing different options, “ she added and explained that she cannot give a specific date for the agreement with the MERCOSUR countries, but ”we had very productive round of negotiations… there are some remaining stumbling block concerning cars and car parts but I think we can solve them,” she said.

“I expect all Member States to unite around that the EU will retain its leading role in the World Trade Organization based on clear rules,“ Emil Karanikolov, Bulgaria’s Minister of Economy said.

At a joint press conference of the EU Commissioner for Trade and the Bulgarian Minister of Economy later today, the two will specify the highlights of the discussions during the day.