EU Trade Commissioner Emphasizes Importance of Free and Fair Trade Amid Global Challenges
ISTANBUL — European Union Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic highlighted the critical role of trade in promoting economic progress and peace during his speech at the Brussels Economic Security Forum on Thursday. He reiterated that the EU has consistently championed free and fair trade as a foundation for growth and stability.
“Trade is not just a political slogan; it is an economic necessity,” Sefcovic said, referencing the legacy of Robert Schuman, a founding father of European integration, who believed Europe’s unity depended on robust economic ties.
The commissioner stressed the EU’s commitment to negotiation and cooperation rather than isolation. “We negotiate, we do not isolate, and we do not leave the table,” he said.
Sefcovic pointed to the EU’s extensive network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), the largest globally, and emphasized efforts to accelerate ongoing bilateral negotiations while launching new trade talks.
Jonathan Reynolds, the UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, also spoke at the forum, highlighting the UK’s commitment to an open and collaborative approach to economic security. “Good fences may make good neighbors, but the UK and EU are more than neighbors — we are friends,” Reynolds said.
These remarks come amid renewed trade tensions between the United States and the European Union. US President Donald Trump had threatened to impose a 50% tariff on EU goods starting June 1, citing stalled negotiations after suspending a 20% tariff previously imposed. Following discussions with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the tariff implementation date was postponed to July 9.
Trade talks continue, with Commissioner Sefcovic meeting US Trade Representative in Paris on Wednesday to seek resolution.
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