EU clinches deal to end mobile roaming charges, ensure equal treatment of all Internet traffic

The European Union has agreed to end mobile roaming charges within two years and allow travelers to pay the same price for calls, text messages and data anywhere in the 28 EU nations.

The deal sealed by lawmakers and EU country representatives also means that Internet users will be able to access content without being unfairly slowed down or blocked.

Top EU top digital affairs official Guenther Oettinger welcomed the move Tuesday, saying that cuts to roaming charges and so-called net neutrality are "essential for consumers and businesses."

The agreement would see roaming charges abolished by June 2017. A transition phase will begin next April when charges will already be four times lower for some consumers.

The deal still has to be rubber-stamped by EU nations and the full parliament.