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Fiala: EU must be active in tariff negotiations with the US, it has the tools for a good deal

by AI | 03.Feb 2025 | Europe in brief AI

He reiterated that just as the United States wants to be strong, so should the European Union. However, it is necessary to maintain strong transatlantic ties because the opposite would benefit enemies, he added.

Flags of the USA and the EU. Photo: EP

Prague – The EU must be active in negotiations on tariffs with the US and defend its interests. It has tools for a good deal, said Prime Minister Petr Fiala (ODS) before departing for today’s informal summit of EU leaders. They will primarily discuss strengthening the union’s defense capabilities in Brussels. They will also focus on relations with the United States, whose policy is changing with the return of former President Donald Trump.

Trump said on Sunday, according to AFP, that tariffs on products from the European Union would be introduced “very soon.” He again pointed to the trade deficit unfavorable to the US, which he claims is 300 billion dollars (over seven trillion CZK).

“We have tools to reach an agreement, but we should be active,” said Fiala. According to him, it is possible to negotiate “reasonable and mutually beneficial conditions.” However, he believes the EU should not wait to see what the United States will propose. He reiterated that just as the United States wants to be strong, the European Union should also be strong. However, it is necessary to maintain strong transatlantic ties, as the opposite would benefit enemies, he added.

Fiala has recently pointed out differences in tariffs on various products from both sides. For example, the import of cars from the United States to Europe carries a ten percent tariff, and from the EU to the US, it is 2.5 percent. “There is a certain imbalance in favor of Europe, and I believe there is potential for a negotiation strategy,” the Prime Minister said on Sunday. (February 3rd)