Jan. 16 (UPI) -- Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will not attend Saturday's signing ceremony in Asuncion, Paraguay, for the free trade agreement between Mercosur and the European Union -- a decision that has sparked diplomatic tensions within the South American bloc.
Presidents from Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay are expected to attend the event. Brazil will be represented by Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira.
Presidents from Panama and Bolivia will also attend as special guests. Bolivia is seeking to join Mercosur as a full member. Mercosur is the Southern Common Market formed by Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.
Lula's absence comes at a key moment for the trade agreement, considered one of the world's largest after more than 25 years of negotiations.
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