European Parliament head tries to save EU-Canada “not capable” trade talks

The European Parliament president has called for emergency meetings to try to save a free trade deal.

Martin Schulz asked for individual talks with Canadian Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland and Paul Magnette, the head of Wallonia in Belgium, which has blocked a deal on the Ceta understanding.

Mr Magnette is seeking clarity on safeguards to protect labour, consumer and environmental standards.

Ms Freeland abandoned talks on Friday, after seven years of negotiations.

She said it was clear that the EU could not reach deal even with Canada, a nation that shared European values.

All 28 EU member states support the Ceta free trade arrangement, but Belgium’s constitution stipulates that the deal must be backed by each of its regional authorities before it can be signed by the federal government.

The French-speaking region of Wallonia has remained steadfast in its resistance to Ceta.

“We can not quit at last mile,” Mr Schulz said on Twitter, saying he would meet Ms Freeland at 0730 (0530 GMT) on Saturday and Mr Magnette an hour and half after.

A spokesman for the Canadian trade minister was unable to confirm the meeting would set.

The wide ranging deal was to be signed.

Belgium-Canada Ceta trade dispute bedevils EU summit

Talking outside the seat of the Walloon government on Friday afternoon, Ms Freeland told reporters: “It appears clear for me and for Canada the European Union isn’t now capable of having an international accord even with a country that’s worth as European as Canada.”

She included: “Canada is disappointed, but I believe it is impossible.”