Politics
EU trade ministers discuss US tariffs
Trade relations with the US
Ministers held a discussion on the EU’s trade relations with the US, providing guidance for the forthcoming work.
In light of the recent developments, particularly the (partial) imposition of US tariffs, the ministers took this opportunity to assess the impact of these new tariffs and explore the potential for negotiating mutually acceptable solutions, which remains the EU’s preferred approach.
Further to the EU’s response in relation to the US tariffs on steel and aluminium, which is currently under preparation, ministers also addressed the possibility of further proportionate countermeasures if needed.
The EU deeply regrets the new US tariffs and remains committed to dialogue, seeking a negotiated solution acceptable for both sides. Today’s Council shows the member states are united and determined to defend interests of citizens and businesses alike. We support the European Commission and our response will be guided by patience and firmness. All options remain on the table.
Michał Baranowski, Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Economic Development and Technology of Poland, responsible for Trade
Looking ahead, the Commission and member states will carefully assess any potential new US measures, as well as the latest tariffs announced (a 20% tariff on the EU).
The aim is to ensure that the EU’s approach remains both balanced and effective, protecting our economic interests while keeping the door open for mutually advantageous solutions.
- EU relations with the United States (background information)
Trade relations with China
The Council reviewed the current state and future outlook of EU-China trade relations.
Commissioner Šefčovič briefed ministers on the status of the EU’s trade ties with China following his visit to the country. He reported on his discussions with Vice Premier He Lifeng, Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao, and Minister of Customs Sun Meijung, focusing on how to improve and rebalance trade and investment relations between the EU and China.
China remains a key trading partner for the EU: it is the EU’s third-largest trading partner and the second-largest in terms of trade in goods. However, the growing trade imbalances continue to raise concerns.
The EU-China trade deficit for 2024 reached €304.5 billion; while this is an improvement compared to the 2022 figures (€397 billion), it nonetheless represents a record high in terms of volume. In 2024, Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI) into the EU reached its highest level in the past five years, amounting to €185 billion, while EU FDI in China remained stable at €184 billion.
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EU and UAE Deepen Strategic Ties as Fourth High-Level Political Dialogue Concludes in Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI — In a significant step toward strengthening diplomatic and economic cooperation between Europe and the Gulf, the European Union and the United Arab Emirates concluded their Fourth High-Level Political Dialogue on Monday in Abu Dhabi. The talks marked a turning point in bilateral relations, with both sides agreeing to intensify collaboration not only through trade but also on pressing regional and global security issues.
Co-chaired by Deputy Secretary-General of the European External Action Service for Political Affairs Olof Skoog and H.E. Lana Nusseibeh , Assistant Minister for Political Affairs and the Foreign Minister’s Envoy for the EU, the dialogue underscored the growing strategic alignment between the two partners amid shifting global dynamics.
One of the most anticipated outcomes of the meeting was the landmark announcement of the launch of free trade negotiations between the EU and the UAE — a move that promises to deepen economic integration and boost investment flows between the regions. Officials described the decision as a “win-win” for both parties, reflecting shared interests in stability, innovation, and sustainable development.
“The EU-UAE partnership is more than just diplomacy,” said Skoog in a joint press statement. “It’s about building resilience together — economically, politically, and regionally.”
Toward a Strategic Partnership Agreement
Beyond trade, both sides expressed strong support for elevating the relationship through the conclusion of a EU-UAE Strategic Partnership Agreement , which would institutionalize cooperation across a broad spectrum of issues. Such an agreement would allow for greater coordination on foreign policy, defense, energy transition, climate action, and technological innovation.
The dialogue also reaffirmed the importance of multilateral engagement, with both parties emphasizing the need to uphold international law and work together within global institutions such as the United Nations and the G20.
Addressing Regional Challenges
In a wide-ranging discussion on regional affairs, EU and UAE officials exchanged views on several conflict zones and volatile situations:
- Gaza : Both sides called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the release of hostages, and urgent humanitarian aid access.
- Lebanon and Syria : Concerns were raised over the ongoing political instability and the humanitarian toll of protracted crises.
- Iran and Yemen : Participants emphasized the need for de-escalation and inclusive political solutions to reduce tensions and promote regional security.
- Red Sea Security : With rising maritime threats, both parties agreed on the importance of safeguarding vital shipping routes and coordinating naval efforts.
- Sudan : The EU and UAE reiterated their calls for an end to violence and a return to civilian-led governance.
- Ukraine : The EU welcomed the UAE’s continued diplomatic engagement on the issue, while reaffirming its stance against Russia’s aggression.
Strengthening EU-GCC Cooperation
Looking ahead, the EU and UAE also discussed ways to deepen EU-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) ties , particularly in light of the upcoming UAE presidency of the GCC later this year. This follows up on commitments made during the October 2024 EU-GCC Summit in Brussels , where leaders from both regions pledged closer collaboration on energy, trade, and regional security.
The dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to continue fostering trust and cooperation, not only between the EU and UAE, but also in support of broader regional stability and prosperity.
As the world faces unprecedented geopolitical challenges, the deepening EU-UAE partnership may serve as a crucial bridge between East and West — one built not only on shared interests, but on shared values.
United Arab Emirates: 4th High-level Political Dialogue held in Abu Dhabi on 27 May
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- EIB Global and Kazakhstan Housing Company sign accord to promote energy-efficient homes in country.
- Agreement comes in wake of first EU-Central Asia summit.
- The company will also benefit from technical assistance provided under the joint EIB and GIZ initiative, FELICITY II.
The European Investment Bank’s development arm (EIB Global) and state-owned Kazakhstan Housing Company JSC are teaming up to increase the number of energy-efficient and sustainable homes in Kazakhstan.
EIB Vice-President Kyriacos Kakouris and Altay Kuzdibayev, chairman of the management board of Kazakhstan Housing Company, signed a memorandum of understanding today in the Kazakh capital Astana for financing to build energy-efficient homes.
“We will work closely with Kazakhstan Housing Company to explore financing opportunities for housing projects that meet high energy-efficiency standards,” said EIB Vice-President Kakouris. “The agreement reflects a commitment by the European Union and the bank to deepening our strategic partnership with central Asia. Contributing to the sustainable future of the region through initiatives like this one is a high priority for us.”
This new accord is part of an initiative – FELICITY II Cities Advisory Facility – undertaken jointly by the EIB and German development agency Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). The initiative is supported by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action of Germany to support low-carbon investments in countries in eastern Europe and central Asia.
“Improving people’s quality of life and developing a modern, comfortable urban environment are the key priorities of Kazakhstan Housing Company. Signing a memorandum with EIB Global is an important step in the implementation of long-term international cooperation initiatives that are in line with both national priorities and global climate challenges. We are confident that this partnership will contribute to the formation of a new standard of housing and the development of sustainable and energy efficient housing projects in Kazakhstan,” said Kazakhstan Housing Company Management Board Chairman Kuzdibayev.
The memorandum of understanding builds on the first EU-Central Asia summit held in April 2025, when government leaders pledged to strengthen ties between the two regions. During the summit, EIB Global announced plans to expand its strategic investments in sustainable development across central Asia.
GIZ, which was represented at today’s signing event in Astana, , in cooperation with the German Energy Agency (dena) will offer technical assistance to Kazakhstan Housing Company under FELICITY II.
Cooperation between the EIB and Kazakhstan Housing Company creates a real opportunity to accelerate the low-carbon transformation of Kazakhstan’s building sector, which accounts for a third of the country’s energy use,” said GIZ Project Director André Fabian. “It will also stimulate the market for energy-efficient construction and foster the uptake of innovative technologies and services.” The signing took place during the Astana International Forum, an annual conference that promotes global dialogue and attracts leaders of governments, international organisations, businesses and academic institutions. At the Forum, EIB Vice-President Kakouris participated in panel discussions on water security, global trade and climate action.
Background information
About EIB Global
The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by the Member States. It finances investments that pursue EU policy objectives.
EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner of Global Gateway. It aims to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 – around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. Within Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to people, companies and institutions through its offices across the world.
Photos of EIB headquarters for media use are available here
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