France signals tough stance on US trade policies

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
19 Jan 2025 10:41

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot issued a strong warning ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration, emphasizing that France would take decisive action if its interests were threatened.

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Official photo of Jean-Noel Barrot, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs. (French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs)

As the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump on January 20 raises concerns about looming trade and diplomatic tensions between the US and the European Union, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot issued a firm warning on Saturday, vowing that France would respond decisively if its interests were threatened.

In an interview with regional daily newspaper Ouest-France, Barrot questioned, "Who stands to gain from a trade war between the US and Europe? While the US has a trade deficit with us, the situation is completely different when it comes to investment. Numerous US companies have established operations in Europe."

He further cautioned that an increase in tariffs would primarily harm US interests in Europe and significantly impact the US middle class, leading to a sharp decline in purchasing power.

Barrot underscored that Europe is committed to ensuring fairness in trade, stating, "Europe has made it clear: we will defend the principles of fairness in trade exchanges. If we encounter unfair or arbitrary practices, we will take action."

Canada braces for potential 'biggest trade war' with US

In a related context, Foreign Minister Melanie Joly stated on Saturday that Canada is prepared to face off against US President-elect Donald Trump in what could be the "biggest trade war" between the two nations in decades. Trump, who will soon return to the White House, has threatened to impose 25-percent tariffs on Canadian imports as part of his broader economic policy targeting countries like Mexico and China.

"This would be the biggest trade war between Canada and the US in decades," Joly said during a press conference in Washington.

"The Americans would be starting a trade war against us." She emphasized that Canada is ready to apply maximum pressure, with several measures already prepared in case Trump moves forward with the tariffs, which could significantly impact Canadian consumers and jobs.

The big picture

Joly's remarks followed her visit to Washington from January 15 to 17, where she met with US government officials to discuss important issues, including bilateral trade and border security between the two countries.

Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed similar concerns during a meeting of the newly established Canada-US Relations Council.

"No one wants to see US tariffs imposed on our goods. But Canada will be ready with a national response if we need one," Trudeau warned. "We will be strong and unequivocal in our defense of Canada and Canadians."

Trudeau also pointed out that the proposed tariffs would "put American jobs at risk, raise prices for American consumers, put our collective security at risk, and raise costs all across the continent."

Speaking to MSNBC earlier this week, Trudeau clarified that while Canada isn't seeking a trade war with the incoming administration, retaliation would be necessary if the US imposes tariffs on Canadian goods. According to Canadian government sources, Ottawa is prepared to introduce tariffs on American products, such as steel, ceramics, tiles, glassware, and orange juice, with the potential for these measures to be expanded.