Statement from Taoiseach Micheál Martin on EU-US trade negotiations

Like President Ursula von der Leyen, I note the letter from President Trump and the indication that a tariff of 30% may be imposed by the United States on imports from the EU.

The EU and the US enjoy the biggest trade and investment relationship in the world. When issues arise between us, they should be resolved by close and respectful dialogue.

The EU, through the team led by President von der Leyen and Vice-President Šefčovič, has engaged in good faith to reach an agreement on a positive and balanced way forward.

While it has been clear that all options remain on the table, the EU has also been clear that our preference is for a negotiated solution that avoids escalation. That remains the case.

I hope that negotiations will continue in the weeks ahead and that they will be successful.

The EU and the US should be partners, not rivals. In a true partnership, everyone wins.

The EU negotiators continue to have my full support in this important work.

ENDS