European People’s Party Chairman Manfred Weber has emphasized trade policy as a key instrument for addressing concerns surrounding the policies of U.S. President Donald Trump. In remarks to Politico, Weber stated that “the best anti-Trump agreement is Mercosur” suggesting that demonstrating Europe’s capacity to conduct successful trade relationships beyond the United States is crucial.
Weber underscored the need for European self-reliance, noting that the continent is being “pushed into a cold, icy world” and must therefore proactively fulfill its responsibilities. He advocated for Europe to “finally grow up” in the current global landscape.
Furthermore, Weber, who leads the largest group in the European Parliament, reaffirmed his support for a European army, describing it as a “non-alternative” solution in the long term. He called for overcoming national fragmentation, advocating for a “European defense architecture that, like the euro, cannot be reversed.
Finally, Weber defended the trade agreement between the European Union and the United States under President Trump, despite resistance within the European Parliament. He asserted that the European People’s Party sees no viable alternative to the agreement, even acknowledging its difficulties and cautioned against contemplating a trade war with the United States.