EU-US Free Trade Agreement: large majority of EP votes for early negotiations

The European Parliament has put pressure on the United States for the negotiations on a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement to start as soon as possible. A large majority of MEPs gave their support to a "deep and comprehensive trade and investment agreement" between the European Union and the United States.

"A reduction of customs and trade barriers on both sides of the Atlantic would be a vitamin boost for Europe's economy. Negotiations must start quickly to create new growth for Europe. European Commission estimates have shown that a Free Trade Agreement with the United States could result in macroeconomic gains for the EU of up to €119 billion annually", said Godelieve Quisthoudt-Rowohl MEP, EPP Group Rapporteur for trade relations with the US.

The European Parliament, whose approval is necessary for the entry-into-force of a final agreement, asked the European Commission to keep it informed about the progress of the negotiations. “Without the consent of the European Parliament, there won’t be any agreement with the United States. The European Parliament must be kept informed of the progress of negotiations", Quisthoudt-Rowohl concluded.