MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

“Symbolic signature”

Discussions on the Political, Economic Association and Cooperation agreement between Chile and the European Union are expected to conclude soon, however a “symbolic signing” ceremony will take place in Madrid during the coming May Latinamerica-European Union summit.

Mr. Heraldo Muñoz, Secretary General of Chile's Executive Office confirmed negotiations which began in 2000 are progressing, but added that "another couple of months are needed to finish with all the formalities".

"Nevertheless we are planning a symbolic signature ceremony given the importance to the agreement", said Mr. Muñoz.

Mr. Muñoz pointed out that fortunately "the trade issues can be rapidly implemented, however the political aspects need parliamentary approval and this will take some more time".

This week in Brussels Chilean and EU representatives are involved in the tenth round of talks and expect to finalize all chapters so the official announcement can be made in the May summit.

"We still have some sensitive issues such as fisheries and wines, but we believe they will be included in the global agreement, although minor details could be left for further on", said Mr. Muñoz.

The European Union became in 2001 Chile's main trade partner and the cooperation agreement points in that direction. The EU is also the main investor in Chile with 15,5 billion US dollars.