Andorran Business and Unions Join EU Pact as Observers Amid Bulgaria Blockade

Business and union representatives have joined Andorra's State Pact on the European Union as observers, marking their first participation in a meeting on Wednesday. The move includes the Confederació Empresarial Andorrana (CEA), Empresa Familiar Andorrana (EFA), Cambra de Comerç, Indústria i Serveis, Unió Sindical d’Andorra (USdA), and Consell de Col·legis Professionals.

CEA president Gerard Cadena, speaking for the group, noted a growing acceptance among businesses of the association agreement with the EU. He attributed this shift to better understanding of its terms, particularly after recognising the economic risks of strict third-country border controls, such as the entry/exit system. "We observe a progressive change in businesses themselves as they grasp what the association agreement entails," Cadena said, adding that ongoing explanations are making firms more receptive. He stressed Andorra's geographic constraints, with only Spain and France as neighbours, underscoring the need for strong ties with Europe to avoid isolation.

Cadena also acknowledged communication shortcomings around the deal, echoing views that public efforts must improve to clarify benefits and risks. He emphasised distinguishing economic perspectives from political ones to address business concerns effectively.

Head of Government Xavier Espot welcomed the new observers, saying they enrich discussions as the pact nears its final stages ahead of a potential referendum. The session reviewed an AR+I survey showing public unease and insufficient information on the agreement. Espot called for broader communication channels to reach all citizens, not just informed groups.

No major progress emerged on the agreement's approval, stalled by Bulgaria's blockade over a bilateral issue with San Marino, described as minor and already under judicial review. Espot expressed frustration but optimism, noting recent high-level interventions. French President and Co-Prince Emmanuel Macron met Bulgaria's prime minister, while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen contacted Bulgarian authorities. Andorra is acting as a conduit in these efforts.

The text, linked to San Marino's dossier, is expected to be classified as mixed, requiring ratification by EU states' legislatures after European Parliament approval—potentially up to 42 chambers in some cases. Espot hopes resolution before Cyprus's EU presidency ends on 30 June, though he avoided firm dates given past delays. The issue returns to the Coreper agenda next week, after Bulgaria requested its prior withdrawal. "We're waiting to see what Bulgaria does," Espot said, confident other members have no reservations. He warned that further delays risk diminishing priority.