Italy Stresses European Unity in Addressing Tariff Challenges Amidst Transatlantic Concerns

Rome: Decisions regarding tariffs need to be taken at a European level, Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said on Thursday, noting Italy would discuss the issue within the EU to find the best possible solutions to preserve “our interests in a transatlantic relationship that must not deteriorate” while also safeguarding “our interests and our companies.”

According to Ansa News Agency, Tajani emphasized that “the responses to the issues related to tariffs are at a European level” and expressed Italy’s commitment to dialogue within the European framework. The goal is to find the best solutions possible to maintain a healthy transatlantic relationship while protecting national interests and businesses.

Tajani further stated the importance of preserving Italy’s competitiveness, highlighting that “we must preserve our interests and our companies and find solutions that allow our realities to be competitive – we have a strategy.” He reassured that Italy has been proactive, noting, “We have been working for months on the issue of tariffs” and expressed the government’s determination to move forward with “determination and strength to safeguard our companies.”

Meanwhile, Business and Made in Italy Minister Adolfo Urso expressed concerns over a potential escalation into a trade war. Speaking at a press conference following a European steel summit in Paris, Urso highlighted Italy’s position as a leading exporting nation. “Italy is obviously concerned by an escalation and a potential trade war because we are a great exporting country,” he stated.

Urso pointed out Italy’s significant trade presence, noting, “over the past few years Italy has become the fourth exporting country in the world after Germany, China, and the US” and emphasized the importance of avoiding trade conflicts, especially given Italy’s “very positive trade balance with the US.” He concluded by underlining the shared European interest in preventing trade tensions from escalating.