Merz urges EU to swiftly agree on tariffs deal with the US
Amid ongoing tensions in trade relations between the European Union and the United States, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressly called upon European institutions and partners to accelerate efforts toward reaching a quick and straightforward tariffs agreement. He emphasized that this step is crucial for stabilizing trade relations and avoiding further conflicts, which could negatively impact both the EU economy and global markets. Merz highlighted that a more effective approach would be a rapid and uncomplicated negotiation process rather than prolonged and complex bureaucratic procedures, which only delay progress and risk ending without results. Speaking at the annual conference of the National Cooperative Banks Association in Berlin, he pointed out that time is running out, with only a few days left before the critical deadline for signing an agreement that could influence the future of trade relations between Europe and the US. Overall, his statement serves as a signal to expedite negotiations, especially considering the ongoing discussions between EU and US officials, and given that US President Trump has imposed strict tariffs. Meanwhile, the EU remains prepared for any scenario, including the possibility of negotiations failure, and is preparing countermeasures to defend its interests and stabilize the internal market if necessary.