The Donald Trump administration does not seem committed to efforts to prevent a trade clash with the European Union, said EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, News.bg reports.
This comes two days before the entry into force of US tariffs on steel and aluminum imports.
Šefčovič, who visited Washington last month to start a dialogue with the aim of preventing "unnecessary pain from measures and countermeasures", told journalists in Brussels that he sees no desire for compromise on the part of the US.
„After all, one hand cannot clap alone. The US administration does not seem committed to reaching a deal,“ he stressed.
According to him, the EU is ready for a constructive engagement, as “nobody benefits from trade tariffs“. He recalled that with a trade exchange worth 1.6 trillion euros, both countries must be extremely careful.
Despite the EU's openness to negotiations, Šefčovič was adamant that if a positive result is not achieved, Brussels will take retaliatory measures.
“Our doors remain open, but if we do not get a positive result, we will protect European businesses, workers and consumers from unjustified tariffs,“ he said.