In her speech at the European Parliament (EP) Plenary Session in Strasbourg, von der Leyen made important assessments on trade relations between the EU and the US.
Reminding that the US has imposed tariffs on 70% of its total trade with the EU since February, von der Leyen emphasized that the scale and scope of these measures have reached unprecedented levels. Emphasizing that the EU's stance against these tariffs is clear, von der Leyen stated, "We will stand firm. We prefer a negotiated solution with the US. That is why we are working closely with the US administration to reach an agreement."
Referring to her phone call with US President Donald Trump at the beginning of the week, von der Leyen stated that the parties agreed to accelerate and advance the negotiations. "We are committed to our principles and defend our interests. We continue to work in good faith and are ready for all scenarios." she stated. She added that they are working day and night to find solutions to trade problems and tariffs.
After taking office, US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs of 50% on steel and aluminum imports from EU countries, 25% on the automotive sector and 10% on other products. Trump stated that there was no progress in trade negotiations with the EU and proposed a new 50%tariff directly to the EU.
Following these statements, as a result of the phone call between von der Leyen and Trump, the US side postponed the direct 50% tariff decision until July 9 to give time for negotiations. Trump then decided to extend this deadline until August 1.
The EU Commission, which conducts trade negotiations on behalf of EU countries, continues its intensive contacts with the US to reach an agreement on tariffs.
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