France, May 1 -- The agreement to create one of the world's biggest free-trade zones was sealed in January after more than 25 years of intermittent negotiations.

The deal, which eliminates tariffs on more than 90 percent of trade between the two sides, has proven divisive in Europe, with France leading opposition over concerns some of its farmers will be left worse off.

But, backed by a majority of EU countries, Brussels went ahead as it pushes to diversify trade in the face of challenges from the United States and China.

EU countries green-light Mercosur trade deal despite France's opposition

"A lot of work went into getting this landmark deal over the line; now it's time to invest the same effort into making sure our citizens and bu...