“The European Union, overcoming deep dissension among its members, gave the green light to a sweeping trade pact with four South American countries on Friday that would create one of the largest free-trade zones in the world, connecting markets with more than 700 million people…

Ms. von der Leyen could travel to Paraguay next week to formally sign the agreement.

The European Parliament will also have to approve the treaty.

The accord is set to cut tariffs on European products exported to South America and on South American goods shipped to Europe. Proponents have argued that the agreement will also provide access to a source of critical raw materials aside from China.”

From New York Times.