Brussels, January 18 (RHC)-- A first round of negotiations for a Multiparty Trade Agreement between the European Union (EU) and Ecuador concluded successfully on Friday in Brussels, said officials with the European Commission (EC).

"Good preparation and active commitment from both sides has led to significant progress over the week of talks, towards an outcome that would benefit trade and investment between the EU and Ecuador " said the EC authorities.

During the talks, which started last Monday, both parties addressed issues such as access to markets for agricultural and industrial products, government procurement and trade in services and facilities.

The negotiations, which were halted in 2009 due to the withdrawal of Ecuador, were resumed at the request of President Rafael Correa, who warned that the eventual agreement will be signed only if it is beneficial for his country.