The European Union (EU) will seek to engage in a "pragmatic" manner with the new United States government led by Donald Trump, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Von der Leyen emphasized the EU's readiness to defend its principles while pursuing increased cooperation with all willing partners, particularly the United States. She noted that the trade volume between the EU and the US amounts to €1.5 trillion (approximately $1.55 trillion), representing 30% of global trade.
"There is much at stake for both sides. Therefore, our first priority will be to discuss common interests and be ready to negotiate," she stated.
Von der Leyen highlighted that European companies employ around 3.5 million Americans, while another million people in the US rely directly on trade with Europe. Regarding relations with China, she expressed the EU's desire to engage constructively with the Asian giant to find mutually beneficial solutions, noting that 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the EU and China.
This presents an opportunity to deepen ties and potentially expand trade and investment links. "It is time to seek a more balanced relationship with China, in a spirit of fairness and reciprocity," she asserted.
Additionally, Von der Leyen announced that the first trip of the new Commission, including herself and the other European commissioners, will be to India, where they aim to enhance the strategic partnership with the world's largest democracy, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.