European Commissioner for Economy Valdis Dombrovskis has affirmed that the European Union will maintain its trade partnership with the United States, despite plans to establish new alliances amid the ongoing trade conflict initiated by former President Donald Trump.
During the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in Washington, Dombrovskis emphasized, “The European Union is committed to a closer, deeper, and more substantial cooperation with the US,” highlighting the significance of the economic relationship, which is valued at approximately $9.5 trillion.
Since taking office, Trump has implemented a 10% tariff on a wide range of imports from various countries, including the EU, and has signaled potential increases in tariffs if retaliatory actions are taken. Additionally, certain sectors, such as steel and aluminum, have faced a 25% tariff, along with higher costs on imported vehicles.
Despite these tensions, Dombrovskis argued that both Washington and Brussels are increasingly reliant on each other in a world marked by competition and conflict.
The EU is focused on strengthening existing trade relationships while also seeking to build new partnerships globally to enhance its economic security, the Commissioner noted. He reiterated that the EU’s primary preference is to resolve trade issues through negotiations with the US; however, if negotiations fail, the EU is prepared to impose countermeasures.
Brussels is hopeful for the removal of US tariffs on steel, aluminum, and cars through successful negotiations.
EU officials have been cautious in their rhetoric regarding Trump’s approach to trade relations, emphasizing the importance of stable and predictable trade dynamics. On April 10, Brussels initiated its first counteractions against Trump’s tariffs, which are currently on hold for 90 days, yet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has stated that all options remain available regarding countermeasures.
The European Commissioner also indicated that the EU has proposed to import more American liquefied natural gas (LNG) and lower tariffs on selected goods, while expressing a desire for clearer communication from the US government about its trade intentions.
He reaffirmed that the EU remains a dependable trading partner. The bloc, consisting of 27 member states, has secured trade agreements with 76 countries and has recently concluded negotiations for enhanced partnerships with Mexico, Switzerland, and four South American nations in Mercosur. Ongoing negotiations are also in place with India, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, alongside new trade discussions with the United Arab Emirates. “These agreements aim to foster mutually beneficial partnerships based on reliability and established rules,” he stated.
On matters of security and defense, Dombrovskis acknowledged Trump’s assertion that Europe must take responsibility for its own security, stating that the EU shares the burden alongside NATO allies, particularly the US. He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia until a fair and lasting peace is achieved.
Addressing the competitive landscape, he noted that Europe has fallen behind the US and China in certain advanced technologies, but remains resolved to close this gap as a strategic priority. At the same time, he pointed out that in turbulent times, Europe’s strengths lie in its predictability, adherence to the rule of law, and commitment to a rules-based international order. “We are dedicated to defending our ‘boring democracies’ because ‘boring’ signifies stability and safety in an era when this international order is under threat,” he concluded. (4/23/2025)
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