Bernd Lange, chairperson of the EU Trade Committee and member of the SPD, has urged the European Union to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans‑Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Speaking to Politico, he explained that, in practical terms, the EU would not experience dramatic change because it already has agreements with many of the CPTPP member states. Nonetheless, he sees value in sending a clear signal that the EU wants to strengthen stability, both regionally and globally.
Lange added that this move could also counterbalance China’s influence, “creating stability against the influence of China”. He acknowledged that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had mentioned a closer connection to the CPTPP in June, but that the initiative had stalled. “There are sporadic talks, but no concrete mandate or substantial activity” he said. The partnership is not yet a “top priority” but Ottawa appears eager. “The Canadians are now trying to build an alliance with us and the CPTPP countries” Lange observed.
He plans to raise the issue at the upcoming meeting of EU trade ministers, stating, “I will make sure something is done. It won’t be a huge, drawn‑out project, but it must be addressed”.