EU Parliament Committee Approves Andorra-San Marino Association Deal

The European Parliament's foreign affairs committee approved an interim report on the EU association agreement with Andorra and San Marino on Thursday, securing broad support with 56 votes in favour, three against, and five abstentions.

Croatian MEP Željana Zovko, the report's rapporteur from the European People's Party group, described the pact as "one of the most comprehensive we have ever made." She said it would deliver mutual benefits, granting Andorra and San Marino a status practically equivalent to membership in the European Economic Area. Zovko highlighted that the text covers areas of common interest and praised negotiators from both countries for producing such a positive outcome.

Socialist MEP Laura Ballarin, who also contributed to the discussion, said the agreement would open new opportunities for businesses, SMEs, and consumers by eliminating trade barriers and facilitating the free movement of goods, services, and people. The approved report seeks to deepen economic integration and cross-border cooperation, while accommodating the unique features of Andorra and San Marino through a phased rollout.

Ballarin emphasised that the document clearly designates the agreement as falling under exclusive EU competence, which should enable a swift and predictable ratification process. She added that Europe needs to strengthen links with aligned nations like Andorra and San Marino.

The committee did not take a position on the agreement's legal nature—whether it requires mixed ratification involving member states—leaving that decision to the EU Council under the current Cypriot presidency. This could take weeks or months. The report now advances preparatory steps, equipping the full Parliament to vote on the full text with greater insight once the Council submits it.