The European Free Market Trade Area published in 1957 served as a post war petition to bring economic unity to various European states previously in political opposition. Trade barriers prevent potentially valuable communications for solidifying positive social relations; historically, one country preventing the means of trade of another either served as a product of, or enabled political tension. Economic homogenization assisting as a method of political unification remained a common strategic political policy throughout the remainder of the century. The Maastricht treaty, the treaty on the European Union (1992), sought to aid in unifying Europe “through the strengthening of economic and social cohesion and through the establishment of economic and monetary union.” It also encouraged human rights reinforcements in the international sphere. European nations were not alone in promoting economic cohesion in the early 1990s, however. The Clinton Administration implemented the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994, which eliminated trade barriers between Canada, The United States, and Mexico, further stimulating trade between powerful North American nations, increasing solidarity. Nations seem to understand that economic inclusion is a powerful means to stimulate economies and maintain stability.
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The recognition of the economic benefits of reducing trade barriers was not only noticed in the European Common Market And The Free Trade Area works in 1957 by the countries exclusively joining, but also by their allies. Not only did this serve as a “post war petition to bring economic unity to various European states,” but also the nations who promoted similar ideas and also remained economically tied to them. This is evident by the United States of America when they mention their agricultural market alliances with these nations, stating that the “European market for agricultural exports from the United States is important, and we will wish therefore to study carefully the possible impact of common-market arrangements on it.”
I agree that the liberalization of import controls benefitted international trade. The creation of the European Union in general has allowed the member countries to play a larger role in the global economy and has strengthened the member countries’ identity on matters of international security. The use of a single currency, the euro, has had a positive impact on foreign trade for Europe as a whole.
The European Common Market And The Free Trade Area was about establishing unity among the European countries. The best way for countries to be united is economically. Money brings people together and promotes the sharing of ideas and friendships between countries. I also agree that it promotes a sense of security among nations that they are being supported by others.