French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz discussed the challenge posed by US President Donald Trump in Paris. They stressed Europe's strength and unity in the face of the US president's tariff threats.
During a joint press conference before their working lunch at the Elysee Palace, Macron said it was a critical moment for France and Germany to take a leading role and ensure that Europe was able to defend its interests while preserving transatlantic ties, writes A2 CNN.
"Now that the new administration has taken office in the United States, it is more important than ever for Europeans, and therefore for our two countries, to play their full role in consolidating a united, strong and sovereign Europe," Macron said.
Supporting the French president's words, Scholz stressed that Trump's presidency would have challenges, but reaffirmed the long-standing relationship of friendship between the EU and the US, A2 CNN reports.
"This week we are dealing with a new American administration. It is already clear that President Trump will be a challenge. Our position is clear. Europe is a large economic area with around 450 million citizens. We are strong. We stand together. Europe will not hide," Scholz stressed.
Trump said Tuesday he would impose tariffs on the EU over trade surpluses with the U.S. He also threatened Canada, Mexico and China with heavy duties starting in February, CNN reports.
Macron and Scholz discussed the steel, automotive and chemical industries, which could be hit by US tariffs, and said they were vital to the EU economy.
The German Chancellor also stressed the need for increased European cooperation in the field of defense, citing Franco-German initiatives to develop longer-range precision weapons, A2 CNN reports.
Meanwhile, the French president said Europe must increase its defense spending and also "develop its industrial base, its capacities and its industry."
Earlier this month, Trump called on NATO's 32 member countries to spend 5% of their GDP on defense, up from the existing target of 2%, and said European allies were failing. (A2 Televizion)
A2 CNN Livestream
MUND TE LEXONI GJITHASHTU
