Scholz, Macron push for European unity amid US trade threats
On January 22, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, marking a pivotal moment for European unity amidst rising global tensions.
The two leaders discussed strategies to counter potential disruptions in transatlantic relations, with Scholz emphasizing the need for “a strong and coordinated response” to looming US tariff threats on European exports, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.
Macron echoed this sentiment, stating, “Europe must stand together and act swiftly to protect its economic sovereignty.”
The meeting comes as Europe braces for potential fallout from shifting US policies, particularly under Donald Trump’s rhetoric on trade and alliances.
Note that, Donald Trump has officially taken office as the 47th president of the United States, sparking varied responses from leaders and politicians worldwide. While some extended congratulations and expressed hopes for cooperation, others voiced concerns over potential policy shifts.
China expressed a willingness to engage with the US to resolve ongoing trade disputes. President Trump has previously threatened to impose new tariffs on Chinese goods, raising economic tensions. Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, stated, “Beijing is willing to strengthen dialogue and communication with the United States, properly manage differences, and expand mutually beneficial cooperation.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted Moscow’s readiness to restore relations with Washington. “We welcome Trump’s team’s statements on their desire to restore direct contacts with Russia, which were halted through no fault of ours by the outgoing administration,” Putin said in a video address. He also praised Trump’s commitment to avoiding global conflict, noting, “We certainly welcome such an approach.”
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte acknowledged the potential for increased defence collaboration under Trump’s leadership. Writing on X, he stated, “Together we can achieve peace through strength – through NATO!” Rutte also emphasized the alliance’s goal to accelerate defence spending and production.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed confidence in strengthening the US-Israel alliance. “The best days of our alliance are yet to come,” he declared. Netanyahu credited Trump for efforts to secure the release of Israeli captives from Gaza and underscored plans to counter Iran’s influence in the region. “I look forward to working with him to destroy Hamas’s military capabilities and end its political rule in Gaza,” he added.
In contrast, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas focused on peace efforts. “Palestine is ready to work with Trump to achieve peace during his tenure, guided by the two-state solution based on international legitimacy,” Abbas was quoted as saying by the Wafa news agency. He reiterated a vision of coexistence, with Palestine and Israel “living side by side in peace and security.”
Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s de facto leader, expressed optimism about future relations. “We are confident that he is the leader to bring peace to the Middle East and restore stability to the region,” he said in a statement.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties with the United States. “The aim of Germany’s policy with its closest ally is always a good transatlantic relationship,” Scholz affirmed.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reflected on the inauguration as a moment of change. “Today is a day of change and also a day of hope for the resolution of many problems, including global challenges,” he remarked.
As Trump begins his tenure, the global community watches closely, navigating a mix of anticipation and apprehension regarding his administration’s policies.
By Aghakazim Guliyev