Brussels – Maroš Šefčovič, the Slovak EU Commissioner overseeing trade policy and economic security, is scheduled to visit Washington next week to engage in high-level discussions aimed at preventing a transatlantic trade conflict. This information was provided to TASR by a source familiar with the arrangements, who requested to remain anonymous.
These discussions are anticipated to include key officials.
As reported by Politico, Šefčovič will be the highest-ranking EU official to visit Washington since Donald Trump took office as President on January 20. His agenda includes meetings with prominent figures from Trump’s administration, such as Trade Secretary Howard Lutnick, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, and economic adviser Kevin Hassett.
The European Commission later confirmed Šefčovič’s trip to the United States, according to Politico.
The EU represents one of the largest economic partners of the United States, with annual trade in goods and services exceeding 1.5 trillion euros.
On Friday, Trump unveiled a plan to implement reciprocal tariffs on trade partners, set to take effect in April. The European Commission criticized this announcement of new tariffs, labeling it as “a step in the wrong direction.”
During a recent session with Members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg on February 11, Šefčovič underscored the EU’s commitment to safeguarding its interests. He noted that the Commission is actively exploring balanced responses to protect European businesses, workers, and consumers. Acknowledging that the current situation is “not our preferred scenario,” he emphasized the EU’s readiness to engage in dialogue and negotiations with the U.S. to seek a mutually beneficial resolution. (February 16)
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