Paris Besieged by Protesting Agriculturists Opposing International Trade Agreement
Paris, the city of love, was recently infiltrated by a group of distressed farmers driving close to 100 tractors. Their objective was to voice their disapproval against a proposed free trade agreement between the European Union and several South American countries. This protest occurred despite the attempts of law enforcement to prevent their entrance into the capital city.
Reports from within the city suggest that nearly 20 tractors managed to make their way into the heart of Paris. Some of these agricultural vehicles were spotted near the iconic Arc de Triomphe, while others were seen demonstrating near the Eiffel Tower.
Defying Obstacles
The law enforcement authorities had set up barriers in an attempt to keep the protestors at bay. However, the determined farmers managed to "bypass and force their way" through these police barricades. The majority of the tractors, though, were halted at key traffic junctions marking the boundary of the city.
Due to the unanticipated demonstration, the A13 freeway had to be shut down in the direction of Paris early in the morning.
The Reason Behind the Protest
The demonstration was orchestrated by an agricultural union known as Rural Coordination. Their aim was to influence the government of France, which is currently opposing the trade deal that encompasses Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The French farmers are of the belief that this agreement would have a detrimental effect on their means of income.
The leader of Rural Coordination in the Lot-et-Garonne region, José Perez, stated that the farmers' objective was to make their demands known "closer to those who have the power". He added that the demonstration held "a strong symbol".
Additional Grievances
The farmers are not just upset about the potential trade agreement. They are also discontented with the government's health measures to control a disease known as lumpy skin disease in cows. Near Bordeaux, about 40 farming vehicles blocked the entrance to a key oil depot in Bassens late on Wednesday night.
The Future of the Trade Agreement
Internal discussions regarding the trade agreement were revived this week within the EU. There are rumors that the agreement might be signed in Paraguay in the near future.
Other countries like Germany, who are in support of the agreement, may be able to outweigh the objections from France and Poland, who had managed to stall the deal last month due to their strong opposition.
The French Agriculture Minister has reiterated France's disapproval of the agreement, stating that it poses a threat to the production of beef, chicken, sugar, ethanol, and honey.
Nationwide Protest
The Rural Coordination union has called for a protest in front of the National Assembly as part of a nationwide movement. In response, the authorities have deployed a high-level police presence around central Paris landmarks. This is a clear indication of the escalating tension between the farmers and the government over the controversial trade deal.
