French president voices disappointment after US trade talks fall short

President Emmanuel Macron revealed his disillusionment with the recent trade discussions between the European Union (EU) and the United States, specifically concerning tariffs on European goods. 

The French leader acknowledged that the negotiations, which took place during his recent visit to the US, left him with little optimism for any significant breakthroughs, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

Macron explained that he personally raised the issue of trade duties both during and after his trip, but the talks proved to be more challenging than anticipated. "I must say that the negotiations were difficult, and I left with almost no hope for progress," he lamented, underscoring the strained nature of the talks and the lack of tangible results from the diplomatic engagement.

Macron’s remarks reflect the ongoing tension between the EU and the US over trade policy, as both sides grapple with the complexities of tariffs, market access, and broader economic relations. Despite high-level discussions, the French President’s comments suggest that reaching a favorable resolution on these issues remains a distant prospect.

Trump vowed to hit the European Union with 25 per cent tariffs -- the same level set to apply to imports from Canada and Mexico starting next week, while China faces a 10 per cent added tariff.

He said the new tariffs would hit products including cars, adding that the EU has "really taken advantage of us", further fuelling tensions between Washington and its European allies.

"If in early April, as has been announced, tariffs are imposed on European products at this level, Europeans will have to respond," Macron said.

The EU and the US have historically had a complicated trade relationship, marked by competing economic interests and periodic conflicts over tariffs and trade barriers. 

By Vafa Guliyeva