EU approves free-trade talks with Mexico

European Union officials in Brussels say foreign ministers have approved fast-track negotiations with Mexico to secure a free trade accord.

Officials say the agreement would include free trade in goods and services, including telecommunications.

European officials have said the issue of human rights, especially in the state of Chiapas, would play a role in the talks.

An EU spokesperson said talks are due to begin after July.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service