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Opmerkingen van Commissaris Šefčovič bij de persconferentie na de gezamenlijke informele Raad voor Concurrentievermogen en Buitenlandse Zaken
Source published: 4 February 2025

Remarks by Commissioner Šefčovič at the press conference following the joint informal Competitiveness and Foreign Affairs Council meeting

Good afternoon and thank you for your hospitality. It has been a pleasure to hold our discussions in the beautiful city of Warsaw. I wish the Polish Presidency success amidst global uncertainties.

Lets focus on the key issue: the EU-US relationship. This transatlantic partnership is vital, with deeply integrated economies. Both sides benefit significantly from this bond.

For instance, while the EU has a goods surplus with the US, the US leads in services. This trade balance reflects our economic specializations and consumer preferences.

Daily, significant amounts of goods and investments flow across the Atlantic, underscoring the importance of cooperation over tariffs.

Were open to discussions with the US, ensuring mutual benefits while defending against unfair tariffs.

Regarding candidate countries, trade agreements, like those with Ukraine and Georgia, integrate them into EU value chains even before accession.

Trade policy is crucial for the EUs long-term competitiveness, securing inputs and opening new markets.

The EU has a vast network of trade agreements, supporting millions of jobs and fostering business growth.

We aim to deepen partnerships globally and address unfair competition through robust trade defense tools.

In conclusion, trade and competitiveness are interlinked, and todays discussions have been invaluable.

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Source last updated: 4 February 2025
Published on Openrijk: 4 February 2025
Source: Europese Commissie