US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he will impose a base rate of 10% on all imports on the United States and higher rates on some of the country’s largest business partners, as intensifies the trade war that he started on his return to the White House.
Here are some reactions of authorities around the world:
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
“It’s the American people who will pay the highest price for these unjustified tariffs. That’s why our government will not seek to impose reciprocal tariffs. We will not enter a rock rock race that leads to higher prices and slower growth.”
Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sáchez
“Spain will protect its companies and workers and remain committed to an open world.”
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Prime Minister of Sweden, ULF KRISTERSSON
“We don’t want increasing trade barriers. We don’t want a trade war… We want to find our direction back into a path of trade and cooperation with the US so that people in our countries can enjoy a better life.”
Switzerland President Karin Keller-Sutter
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“(The Federal Council) will quickly determine the next steps. The long -term economic interests of the country are paramount. Adherence to international legislation and free trade remain central values.”
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin
“The US decision, tonight, of imposing 20% tariffs on imports from the European Union is profoundly unfortunate. I firmly believe that tariffs do not benefit anyone. My priority, and government, is to protect Irish jobs and Ireland’s economy.”
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Primeiira-Italian Administration, Giorgia Meloni
“We will do everything we can to work for an agreement with the United States to avoid a trade war that would inevitably weaken the West in favor of other global agents.”
Manfred Weber, president of PPE, the largest party in the European Parliament
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“To our American friends, today is not a day of liberation-it’s resentful day. Donald Trump’s tariffs do not defend fair trade; they attack him for fear and hurt both sides of the Atlantic. Europe is united, ready to defend their interests and open to fair and firm conversations.”
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia, Laura Sarabia
“We are analyzing the measures, above all to protect the national industry and our exporters.”
