Milan, July 13 (LaPresse) – “Such a move from President Trump was expected, and I see it as part of his negotiation tactics. The negotiation is not over, and in the coming hours, President Von der Leyen, Commissioner Šefčovič, and all our technical teams will be working on the next steps,” said Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani in an interview with Il Sole 24 Ore, commenting on the U.S. administration’s decision to impose 30% tariffs on EU exports starting August 1.

“In the meantime, all possible options have already been considered, as you know. We don’t want a confrontation with the United States, but we must defend our companies, our industry, and our workers. We must negotiate with our heads held high. This phase of uncertainty must end — our businesses need clarity to operate in the U.S. with a predictable framework,” Tajani added.

“As my colleagues from the EPP said in the European Parliament: 'Negotiate if possible, react if necessary.' I remain optimistic, but we must stand up for European industry,” concluded the Forza Italia leader.

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