MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Mexico, associate member of Mercosur.

The World Trade Organization, WTO, considers that the incorporation of Mexico as an associate state of Mercosur would give the South American block a “new dimension”.

Interviewed in Mexico Carlos Perez del Castillo, president of the WTO General Council said Mexico has "a great contribution to make to the South American block, not only in trade terms but also in the development of trade policies", which has been so efficiently managed.

"Mexico will give Mercosur a new dimension and a greater reach, which is most welcome", added Mr. Perez del Castillo.

Next July 8 Mexican president Vicente Fox will be travelling, specially invited, to the Argentine city of Puerto Iguazú, where he will be participating in the Mercosur presidential summit, when he's expected to formally request Mexico's incorporation as an associate member.

Mexico objective as this stage is having the same status as Chile, Bolivia and Peru, the current three associate members. Full members are Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.