Andorra downplays EFTA delay on EU association agreement

**Andorra's government remains unconcerned by EFTA group's lack of unanimity on EU association agreement**

Andorra's government has downplayed the latest delay in approving its association agreement with the European Union, insisting the process stays on track despite the EFTA working group failing to reach consensus.

Minister and government spokesperson Guillem Casal stated that the negotiations are nearly complete, with the text now in a final stabilisation phase. He emphasised that the current impasse within the EFTA group—where unanimity among EU member states is required—poses no threat to the planned timeline. "No reserva is known that would hinder the calendar's proper functioning," Casal said, adding that the pace now rests with EU institutions and member states, not Andorra or San Marino.

The EFTA group, a technical working body within the EU Council, ended its most recent meeting without agreement, primarily over the pact's legal nature. Debate centres on whether it qualifies as a mixed agreement, necessitating ratification by national parliaments alongside EU approval. Three countries, including Germany and Bulgaria, currently hold reservations for study, though sources indicate Spain no longer opposes the mixed classification.

Casal dismissed concerns about potential blockages, including from Bulgaria amid a banking scandal involving a San Marino entity. He noted recent Bulgarian elections may contribute to delays but stressed no significant reservations from any member, including Spain or Bulgaria, jeopardise progress. The head of government, Xavier Espot, detected no major bilateral or multilateral worries during meetings at last week's European Political Community summit in Armenia.

Cyprus, holding the EU Council presidency until late June, shows strong interest in advancing the deal before its term ends. Casal expressed hope for resumption at upcoming weekly EFTA meetings.

Next steps include EFTA approval, followed by review by the Committee of Permanent Representatives (Coreper) and the EU Council. Signature would finalise the text for European Parliament scrutiny but not trigger entry into force. As a likely mixed agreement, it would then require ratification by all 27 member states, paving the way for an Andorran referendum.

The government discussed these developments Wednesday at a meeting of the State Pact for the Association Agreement, providing updates on related entry/exit regulations. Officials continue bilateral outreach at European events to maintain momentum.