New Delhi, Jan. 21 -- The European Union is delaying a major free-trade agreement with South American nations following intense protests by farmers and last-minute pushback from France and Italy, which threatened to block the pact, seen by supporters as a significant geopolitical initiative for both continents.

Top EU officials had planned to sign the EU-Mercosur deal in Brazil this weekend, after more than two decades of negotiations. Instead, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Friday, following a tense EU summit, that the signature will be delayed "a few extra weeks to address some issues with member states", according to AP.

(This is a developing story. More to come)

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