EU Chief Unveils Stance On Negotiations With Trump At Davos

Europe Ready to Negotiate with Trump, Strengthen Global Ties

EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen announced that Europe is prepared to negotiate with US President Donald Trump while also seeking to enhance relations with China and other nations amidst increasing global competition.

Emphasizing US Partnership at Davos

In her speech at the annual meeting of global elites in Davos, Switzerland, von der Leyen emphasized that the United States remains a crucial partner. She adopted a conciliatory tone, stating that the EU’s “first priority will be to engage early, discuss common interests, and be ready to negotiate” with Trump.

Pragmatism and Principles

“We will be pragmatic, but we will always stand by our principles. To protect our interests and uphold our values,” von der Leyen asserted.

Concerns Over Tariffs and Climate Accord Withdrawal

Trump’s return to the White House has sparked fears that he will fulfill his promises to impose heavy tariffs on China and US allies, including Canada and the European Union. Following his inauguration, Trump indicated that he might impose 25 percent tariffs on Canada and Mexico as early as February 1. He also announced the US withdrawal from the Paris climate accord, which von der Leyen defended as the “best hope for all humanity,” vowing that “Europe will stay the course.”

China’s Response and EU’s Commitment to Free Trade

China’s Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, a member of the Chinese Communist Party’s apex of power, is set to speak immediately after von der Leyen. The EU chief reiterated her commitment to free trade, highlighting recent deals with Switzerland, the Latin American bloc Mercosur, and Mexico. She also expressed a desire to “upgrade” the partnership with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Engaging Constructively with China

Von der Leyen stressed the importance of engaging constructively with China to find mutually beneficial solutions despite escalating trade tensions. “2025 marks 50 years of our Union’s diplomatic relations with China. I see it as an opportunity to engage and deepen our relationship with China, and where possible, even to expand our trade and investment ties,” she said.

David Beckham’s Address at Davos

David Beckham also addressed the Davos forum, receiving a crystal award from the World Economic Forum (WEF) for his work with UNICEF. He spoke about his visits to countries such as Thailand, Nepal, and India, and shared a personal anecdote about standing up every time his wife Victoria leaves the table, as an example of the manners he tries to instill in their children.

China’s Cautious Approach to Trump

China is taking a cautious approach to Trump’s administration. After a phone conversation with Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed hope for a “good start” to relations with the new administration. Although Trump has indicated plans for sweeping trade penalties against China, he has also shown a willingness to improve ties, even reversing a US ban on the Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok on national security grounds.

Ukraine’s Vigilance

Ukraine is closely monitoring Trump’s second term. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to call on world leaders and company executives to maintain and increase their support for Ukraine’s fight against Russia. Zelenskyy expressed hope that Trump will help achieve a “just peace.”

European Concerns and Leadership Changes

Embattled German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to address the forum, likely for the last time as leader ahead of upcoming elections. Conservative leader Friedrich Merz, the favorite to succeed Scholz as German chancellor, will also speak. Europeans are particularly concerned about Trump’s return, while countries from Brazil to China and India to Turkey believe he will be beneficial for their nations and global peace, according to a survey by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR).

Middle East Conflicts on the Agenda

Middle East conflicts will be a key topic at the forum, with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani speaking in separate sessions. The WEF will host discussions on improving aid delivery to Gaza and kickstarting reconstruction and recovery efforts following heavy bombardment.

Increased Interest in Davos

Despite concerns that Trump’s return might overshadow the forum, it should be noted that it has actually increased interest in Davos. It has increased the interest in Davos because people feel they need to come together to better understand what’s on its way.