President Donald Trump and the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, are held on Sunday (27) during the visit of the White House head to Scotland. The meeting feeds expectations of an advance in negotiations by a new trade agreement between the United States and the European Union, capable of avoiding a tariff war between the two blocks.
According to the The Wall Street JournalVon der Leyen said on Friday (26) had had a good conversation with Trump and confirmed that both decided to meet on Scottish soil to deal with transatlantic business relations “and how to keep them strong.”
According to diplomatic sources consulted by the newspaper, European authorities optimistic the possibility of closing a preliminary agreement that sets basic rates of 15% on most products, including cars. However, the outcome will depend on Trump’s final approval and can be reviewed if it requires additional adjustments.
“I would say we have a 50% chance, perhaps less, to close an agreement with the EU,” said Trump. He reiterated that the European Union will need to “reduce its rates” so that an understanding is possible.
The eventual commercial partnership with the EU would exceed other recent agreements negotiated by Washington. Trump has already guaranteed basic rates of 10% with the UK and 15% with Japan, the latter including investment commitments in the US territory.
Trump will be accompanied by the US commercial representative, Jamieson Greer, and the Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick. EU representatives also signaled a willingness to expand the importation of US energy and semiconductors, as well as possible cuts in car tariffs.
According to The Wall Street JournalMuch of the 27 members of the European Union would be willing to accept an average rate of 15%, especially in the automotive sector, to avoid aggravation of the commercial impasse. At the same time, the EU has already prepared retaliatory measures that can reach more than $ 100 billion in American products if negotiations failed.
Trump also has expected meeting with British prime minister Keir Stmerer, on Monday (28), to complete details of a new tariff agreement between the United Kingdom and the USA. The pact foresees a reducing the tariff on American steel to 25%, below the current global rate of 50%. On the other hand, the US presses London to eliminate digital tax that hits US technology companies.
Family roots in Scotland
Trump’s relationship with Scotland has a familiar aspect. Her mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, was born on Lewis Island in the outer hebrids before emigrating to the US during the great depression. In honor of her, Trump should inaugurate a new golf course in northern Scotland, named her name. Scottish Prime Minister John Swinney should also participate in the inauguration.
