Upon Foreign Minister Tajani’s instructions, the Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Maria Tripodi, participated in the Informal Foreign Affairs Council (Trade) in Brussels. The agenda included trade relations with the United States, ongoing EU negotiations for free trade agreements with third countries, and trade relations with China.
Undersecretary Tripodi stated: “Italy strongly supports the Commission in the current complex phase of negotiations with the United States, with the aim of reaching a solution to outstanding trade issues that will strengthen Western unity.” She also emphasized the need to pursue an agreement that ensures our companies the necessary stability to continue exporting, investing, producing wealth, and generating employment.
Expanding the network of free trade agreements is a strategic objective for Italy. She said: “In this context, the conclusion of further agreements will provide our companies with an area within which to grow and become globally competitive, diversifying their markets and ensuring secure supply chains for the necessary raw materials.” Along the same lines, the Undersecretary finally emphasized the strategic importance of the EU-China Summit scheduled for the end of July, which will require a frank, targeted and constructive dialogue with China, with a view to fostering collaborative solutions.
