We need improvement in labour rights, says Lange after Colombia, Peru visit
Summing up an INTA delegation that looked into the two countries’ commitments to promote sustainable development, Committee Chair Bernd Lange (S&D, DE) issued the following statement.
“This trade deal with Colombia and Peru has significantly contributed to economic stability and increased trade flows, benefiting both sides. But we still need to see more improvements regarding the sustainable development of our partners and especially the respect of labour rights, as set out in the action plan, required by the Parliament. Trade must serve all, and workers who are at the heart of our economies, must not be left behind. The delegation addressed the concerns of civil society in this respect in the meetings with the relevant ministers. In the case of Peru, we would like to emphasize the need to create a domestic advisory group to enhance this process”.
Background
A delegation of trade MEPs, led by chair Lange visited the two countries between February 12-16 to assess progress in the implementation of the agreement that has been applied for 5 years. The Committee is also evaluating the application of the action plans on human rights and sustainable development that were submitted by the Colombian and Peruvian governments to the European Parliament before the ratification. The findings of the mission will feed into the committee’s implementation report on the free trade deal with Colombia and Peru, set to be published in the second half of 2018.
Kontakt:
-
Bálint Péter LINDER
Press Officer