Abstract
In the earlier decades of the formation of the European Community, Latin America was neglected in European policies. Latin America was perceived as a US sphere of influence and owing togeographical remoteness there was no threat of mass migration, which could be controlled through economic assistance or investment. This region got slight recognition when the UK joined the EEC in 1973, but the accession of Spain and Portugal to theCommunity in 1986, brought theregion into the limelight. However, Latin America was not an unknown region for Europe, for European colonialists arrived in Latin America at the end of 15thcentury. Spain and Portugal were the principal colonizers of this regionalong with France and Britain.