Spanish economy minister stresses EU unity amid Trump tariff threats-Xinhua

Spanish economy minister stresses EU unity amid Trump tariff threats

Source: Xinhua| 2025-02-03 23:59:00|Editor: huaxia

MADRID, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Spain's Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said on Monday that Europe must remain "united" in response to potential U.S. tariffs, warning that protectionist measures could harm both sides.

In an interview with Spain's national radio network RNE in the morning, Cuerpo commented on recent U.S. tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, as well as the possibility of similar measures targeting European products.

While emphasizing that the transatlantic relationship remains "fundamental" for both the European Union (EU) and the United States, he stressed the importance of European solidarity in facing trade challenges.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Cuerpo said key EU priorities include "a focus on multilateralism, the focus on green energy and strengthening the welfare state."

"The more united we are, the stronger our relationship will be and the more prepared we will be," he said, adding that the bloc should improve its relations with other alliances, such as Mercosur and Mexico.

Cuerpo also advocated for an open, rule-based global trade system, urging the EU to maintain a negotiating stance. He acknowledged that increased tariffs would have a "negative impact" on the economy, cautioning that protectionism will harm both the imposing country and its trade partners.

On Saturday, Trump signed an executive order to impose a 10-percent tariff hike on goods imported from China, and a 25-percent tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada. The move has drawn widespread opposition and immediate retaliations.

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