Foreign Affairs Council debates EU-US trade co-operation

An informal meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council (Trade) has discussed the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP).

Chaired by the Greek Deputy Minister for Development and Competitiveness, Notis Mitarachi in Athens, ministers discussed the agreement for the TTIP, which is currently under negotiation between the EU and the US. The debate is expected to contribute to the substantial exchange of views between the partners. The Greek Presidency also invited representatives of European and American trade businesses.

During the meeting, 28 ministers were also briefed by the European Commission and the European External Action Service on the developments in Ukraine and had the opportunity to discuss the EU-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement.

A joint press conference by Mitarachi and EU Commissioner for Trade, Karel De Gucht, followed the conclusion of the Council. The Deputy Minister for Development & Competitiveness said: “The informal council in Athens intends to give impetus to particularly important issues which directly affect growth and employment in Europe. Promoting the transatlantic EU-US cooperation (TTIP) is a key priority for the Greek Presidency.”

Meanwhile, the European Parliament has consented to the Union extending its agreement with the USA on scientific and technological co-operation.