The European Union (EU) is working closely with the United States to achieve a trading agreement, but is ready for any development of events. This was stated by the chairman of the European Commission Ursula von der Lyain at the plenary meeting of the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
“Since February, the United States introduced duties on 70% of the exports of the European Union,” said von der Layen, emphasizing the unprecedented scale and coverage of these measures.
According to her, the EU position regarding tariffs remains clear.
“We will defend our interests. We prefer a decision achieved by negotiations with the United States. That is why we are actively interacting with the American administration to reach an agreement,” she said.
von der Layen added that at the beginning of the week she had a constructive telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump, during which the parties discussed the possibilities of accelerating the negotiation process.
“We are true to our principles and are ready to protect our interests. We continue to work in good faith and are open to any scenarios,” she stressed.
After taking office, President Trump introduced 50 percent duties on the import of steel and aluminum from the EU countries, 25% – for automotive products and 10% for other goods.
Trump later stated that negotiations with the EU had come to a dead end, and proposed to introduce a direct 50 percent tariff for goods from the European Union. In response to this, von der Layen held a telephone conversation with him.
As a result, the United States postponed the introduction of a new tariff until July 9 to give the parties time for negotiations. Later Trump decided to extend the delay for another three weeks – until August 1.
The European Commission, representing the interests of EU member countries in the field of trade, continues negotiations with US officials on the conclusion of the tariff agreement.