The conclusion of the « new generation » of free trade agreements (FTAs) has brought new challenges to EU's common commercial policy. Being part of the new EU trade strategy reflecting the political ambition of a « stronger Europe in the world », the « new generation » of FTAs supports the EU's geopolitical interests. The EU is, as before, strongly supporting multilateralism and the rules-based international order, including the reform of the World Trade Organization (WTO). It does however develop, at the same time, a network of trade agreements with partners all around the world. Close cooperation with partners is expected to support multilateralism and to fulfil the EU's geopolitical ambitions. In that context, free trade agreements are also seen as platforms for enhanced cooperation pursuing EU values and interests. These political objectives have had echoes in the recent case law rendered by the Court of justice of the European Union on the conclusion of the « new generation » of FTAs. The aim of this contribution is to honor the excellent judge, president and friend Vassilios Skouris by providing some thoughts on the EU FTAs and the challenges linked to their conclusion by the EU and its Member States.