In the lead-up to the informal EU summit in Brussels, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) has emphasized the importance of cooperation with the United States, amidst concerns over potential retaliatory tariffs. Upon arrival at the meeting, Scholz stated that the discussion would focus on the global interconnectedness and the need for the European Union to contribute to the world’s prosperity.
The Chancellor noted that both the US and the EU benefit from the exchange of goods and services and that any trade restrictions would have a negative impact on both parties. As a strong economic region, Germany can take action and respond to trade policies with trade policies of its own, Scholz emphasized. However, the goal should be to achieve cooperation, rather than simply retaliating.
The discussion of cooperation with the US is expected to be a crucial point at the summit, as the EU and the US face the prospect of a trade war. Scholz’s statement underscores the German government’s commitment to maintaining a positive and cooperative relationship with the US, while also being prepared to take action in the event of trade restrictions. The informal summit in Brussels is set to take place on Monday, with defense and trade policies topping the agenda.