EU Chief: More Countries Seeking Partnership with Europe Amid U.S. Tariff Risks

Seeking Partnerships with the UAE, China, and Others

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, stated that an increasing number of countries are seeking to partner with Europe due to risks associated with U.S. tariff policies.

According to major foreign media outlets on April 22 (local time), President von der Leyen made these remarks in an op-ed published in the European edition of Politico. She said, "Recently, I have communicated in succession with the leaders of Iceland, New Zealand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Canada, India, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)," adding, "All of these countries are looking for strong and reliable partners."

President von der Leyen emphasized trust in Europe, citing the results of a Eurobarometer survey by the EU's public opinion research agency, which showed that 74% of citizens in EU member states view belonging to the EU positively. She stated, "In the midst of turmoil, Europe stands firm," and added, "We are ready to shape tomorrow based on our values."

The EU has suspended plans for retaliatory tariffs against the United States and is continuing negotiations after U.S. President Donald Trump decided to grant a 90-day reprieve on reciprocal tariffs. President Trump recently met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and stated that there is a 100% possibility of reaching a tariff agreement with the EU. However, the specific details of the negotiations with the United States have not yet been disclosed. It is reported that there is skepticism within the EU about reaching a swift agreement.

Instead, while focusing on tariff negotiations with the United States, the EU is also seeking to improve relations with China and has decided to launch free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations with the UAE, among other efforts to find alternative paths. In July, President von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, are scheduled to visit Beijing to hold a summit meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.