Brussels has sealed a trade agreement with the United States that the European Commission presents as good news, despite the criticisms it has already received from several member states. Maros Sefcovic, European Commissioner for Trade, defended the pact arguing that it ensures renewed stability and protects a transatlantic relationship valued at 1.7 trillion dollars. The agreement establishes a 15% tariff on European products and obliges the EU to purchase American energy for 750 billion dollars, in addition to investing 600 billion in North American territory. Although Brussels managed to secure exemptions from tariffs for certain products, such as pharmaceuticals, investment in energy was set at 250 billion per year for three years.
However, the reception of the pact has been uneven among European leaders. Germany expressed satisfaction, indicating that crucial interests have been safeguarded, while Belgium and Spain adopted a more cautious stance. The Belgian prime minister, Bart De Wever, warned that although there are reasons to be relieved, there are also troubling aspects that remain unresolved. In contrast, France has been critical, describing the agreement as a 'dark day' for an alliance devoted to values and the defense of common interests. With the Industrial Roundtable expressing cautious support, the negotiations will continue, since the pact still needs to be approved by the European Parliament and the member states.
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