The European Union (EU) has negotiated numerous agreements with countries around the world, with the aim of promoting trade, protecting human rights, and fostering political cooperation. These agreements are designed to strengthen the EU`s economic and political ties with other countries and regions, while also helping to advance its strategic interests on the global stage.
One of the EU`s most well-known agreements is perhaps the Lisbon Treaty, which marked a major milestone in the history of the EU. This treaty, which came into force in 2009, reformed the EU`s institutional setup and gave greater powers to the European Parliament and the European Commission. The Lisbon Treaty also established the European External Action Service (EEAS), which is responsible for the EU`s foreign policy and diplomatic relations with other countries.
Other notable agreements include the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which entered into force in 2017. CETA is a free trade agreement that eliminates tariffs on goods and services between the EU and Canada, while also setting high standards for environmental protection, labour rights, and consumer safety. This agreement is expected to increase trade between the two regions and create jobs and economic growth.
The EU has also negotiated agreements with many other countries and regions, including Russia, China, Japan, and the Gulf Cooperation Council. These agreements cover a wide range of topics, such as trade, investment, energy, human rights, and security. They reflect the EU`s commitment to promoting a rules-based international order and fostering greater global cooperation.
However, not all EU agreements have been without controversy. The EU`s negotiation of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) with the United States drew widespread criticism from civil society groups, who argued that the agreement would prioritize corporate interests over social and environmental concerns. The TTIP negotiations were eventually put on hold in 2016, due in part to public opposition and political concerns.
Overall, the EU`s agreements with other countries and regions represent an important aspect of its foreign policy and global engagement. By negotiating these agreements, the EU hopes to advance its strategic interests, while also promoting greater economic, political, and social cooperation with other countries and regions.