The conference of Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR) member states: discussing a legal integration agenda

Abstract

The Conference of Southern Common Market (Mercosur) Member States was held in the framework of the 5th St. Petersburg International Legal Forum on May 28, 2015. Mercosur is an important political and economic partner for Russia in the Latin America region. Russia and Mercosur countries share approaches to global political and economic issues and key international problems, including spreading the rule of law, crisis management, and answers to new challenges. Economically they have a great potential for development both in mutual trade and investment activities. The conference covered the following issues: evolution of Mercosur: establishment of the Southern Cone common market and institutional and legal framework for the whole bloc and for each member country particularly; relevant problems and future of integration within MERCOSUR; integration processes aimed at harmonization of national legislation within Mercosur; potential ways for cooperation between Russia and MERCOSUR countries in a global legal framework; the future of Mercosur foreign affairs regarding the legal context in terms of cooperation with third parties and such integrated alliances as the Eurasian Economic Union, European Union, and the North American Free Trade Area.