Italy Backs EU-Mercosur Deal, But Delays Final Sign-Off

Italy has called for a delay in finalizing a major trade agreement between the European Union and South America's Mercosur bloc. However, it still calls the deal beneficial. On Wednesday, Italian officials stated the pact offers "enormous benefits." They requested a postponement of plans to sign it in December. The agreement would create the world's largest free-trade area. This area removes most tariffs, or import taxes, between the two economic blocs. A vote by EU member states is expected this Friday. They are likely to approve the agreement's text despite Italy's request for a later signing date.