Madam President,
Honorable Members of the European Parliament.
Europe faces an increasingly complex world, marked by rivalry and unpredictability impacting our trade relations.
The EU is committed to multilateral cooperation and rules-based trade, with the WTO at its core.
This is economically important as 55% of our trade operates under WTO rules.
We must adapt systems to current challenges like climate change and digital transition.
Trade thrives on predictability and fair rules; revitalization is crucial for trust and collaboration.
The G7 and G20 remain relevant for global trade tensions, and the OECD supports multilateralism.
The EU is creating new structures like the Minerals Security Forum and the Coalition of Trade Ministers for Climate.
Our rapidly growing trade network includes 44 agreements with 76 countries, offering growth and innovation opportunities.
We recently concluded negotiations with Mercosur and Mexico and are engaging with countries like India and Indonesia.
We protect our market and industry, strengthening economic security with new strategies.
The recent US tariffs are unacceptable, and we are preparing countermeasures while remaining open to dialogue.
Thank you.