WRITTEN QUESTION P-0292/98 by Maartje van Putten (PSE) to the Commission (5 February 1998)

Subject: EU trade agreement with Mexico - violation of human rights in Mexico

Following the trade agreement concluded with Mexico in December 1997 and the continuing flood of reports of numerous and systematic human rights violations in Mexico, can the Commission answer the following questions.

1. What rights do Mexico and the EU derive from the trade agreement?

2. Did the Commission examine the human rights situation in Mexico before concluding the trade agreement and, if so, what were its findings?

3. Does the trade agreement contain any specific clauses relating to the human rights situation in Mexico and, if so, what do they stipulate?

4. What is the Commission's position on the trade agreement in the light of the recent murders of Indians in Chiapas, in which it has been established that the Mexican Government was involved?

Answer given by Mr Marín on behalf of the Commission (20 February 1998)

1. The new agreements between the Community and Mexico signed on 8 December last year established a legal framework for institutionalising political dialogue and deepening and broadening the existing cooperation between the parties. They also set the objective of preferential, progressive and reciprocal liberalisation of trade in accordance with World Trade Organisation rules. They establish a joint council with the task of subsequently deciding on the steps needed to give effect to trade liberalisation.

2. The human rights situation in Mexico has been a matter of constant concern to the Commission. It concluded that at federal level, the Mexican Government is doing its utmost to improve the overall human-rights situation and to move forward along the path of political openness. Like the rest of the international community, along those lines the Commission also very strongly welcomed the orderly conduct of the July 1997 elections in Mexico.

3. As with any agreement between the Community and a non-member country, the new agreements with Mexico are based on respect for democratic principles and human rights, which inform the policies and are a key plank in relations between the parties. Should the commitments not be honoured, appropriate steps - possibly going as far as suspension of the agreements - may be taken. There is also provision for cooperation to promote human rights and democracy.

4. Ever since the conflict in Chiapas State began, the Commission has always argued for a peaceful, negotiated settlement enabling better consideration of the problems suffered by Mexico's aboriginal population. the Commission took note of the steps taken by President Zedillo to identify and punish all those responsible for the tragedy at Actéal in Chiapas. It will continue to watch action by the Mexican Government to promote a negotiated, lasting solution to the problem.

The Commission believes that the entry into force without delay of the agreements between the Community and Mexico is important, in that they include clauses promoting respect for human rights and create a legal framework which will permit the Community to hold a more effective dialogue with Mexico on the question.