European Parliament
Maria do Céu Patrão Neves  (PPE ),
in writing.
(PT)
The association agreements between the EU and its Mediterranean partners were the first stage in achieving this convention fostering the creation of a Euro-Mediterranean free trade area. The purpose of this convention is to take advantage of these agreements through the adoption of this simpler and more effective legal instrument, which could possibly encourage South-South trade and contribute to economic growth, economic diversification and democratisation of the region, while reducing poverty, and encourage social, commercial and economic integration among the countries of the southern Mediterranean.

