Tajani Warns Rubio Against Trade War Amidst G7 Discussions

Charlevoix: Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced on Thursday his intention to caution United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio against initiating a trade war, emphasizing that it would result in a lose-lose situation. “I will only say (to Rubio) that a trade war is not good for anyone,” Tajani stated during a press briefing at the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Charlevoix, Canada.

According to Ansa News Agency, Tajani expressed his belief that Italy could enhance its economic relations with the United States through increased imports and investments, which could, in turn, provide a buffer to protect Italian exports. The meeting is anticipated to deliver a “strong message of support for Ukraine” and recognize the progress made in Saudi Arabia, facilitated by American mediation. Tajani praised Ukraine’s commitment to peace efforts, noting it is being positively received globally.

However, Tajani voiced his reservations about forming a “coalition of the willing” for peacekeeping in Ukraine to guard against potential Russian aggression. He advocated for a United Nations-led approach, similar to the UNIFIL buffer force in Lebanon, to ensure the protection of peace. Tajani remarked that establishing peace remains the priority before considering further actions.

Additionally, Tajani intends to address the G7 regarding the detention of Italian NGO worker Alberto Trentini in Venezuela, detained since last November. He called for the immediate release of all political detainees in Venezuela, highlighting the presence of other detained Italians without specifying their identities.