EU-US customs agreement erodes European negotiating power
Ines Schwerdtner, chairwoman of Germany's Left party, has criticized the recently agreed EU-US trade deal, expressing concern over its economic and social consequences.
In a statement on Friday, Schwerdtner described the agreement as a "disaster for Europe," claiming that it makes Europe's dependence on the USA clear to everyone. She also accused the EU Commission and the federal government of serious shortcomings in the negotiation process.
Schwerdtner's criticism is particularly focused on a €100 billion special fund related to the agreement, which she believes creates "no real added value" for society. She further accused the German side, under Friedrich Merz, of wanting a quick conclusion to the deal.
The Left party leader also called for an independent industrial policy for Europe, arguing that increased purchases of energy and military goods from the USA would further deepen European dependencies. She advocates for better wage development in EU member states and a stronger internal market in the EU.
Schwerdtner's critique reflects broader concerns about the benefit distribution and practical outcomes of large financial or trade deals. From a political and economic perspective, her position aligns with skepticism about unbalanced trade relations and economic policies that may favor large corporations or fail to ensure social justice.
However, specific criticisms about the EU-US trade agreement beyond the €100 billion fund critique are not fully detailed in the available information. For more precise criticisms, further information from Schwerdtner's public statements or Left party publications would be necessary.
Notably, high US tariffs still apply to key European industries under the agreement, without any real concessions from the Americans. This aspect of the deal also raises concerns about its potential impact on European industries and economies.
In summary, Ines Schwerdtner's criticism of the EU-US trade agreement highlights the need for careful consideration of its economic and social implications, particularly in terms of benefit distribution and dependence on the USA. Her call for an independent industrial policy for Europe and a stronger internal market within the EU underscores the importance of self-reliance and social justice in European economic policy.
Policy-and-legislation discussions surrounding the EU-US trade deal have been at the forefront of politics, with Ines Schwerdtner, chairwoman of Germany's Left party, voicing concerns. In general-news reports, Schwerdtner described the agreement as a potential disaster for Europe and criticized the EU Commission, the federal government, and the German side for shortcomings in the negotiation process. Particularly, she focused on a €100 billion special fund, arguing that it creates no real added value and aligns with her call for an independent industrial policy for Europe. Furthermore, Schwerdtner expressed concerns about American tariffs affecting key European industries and the potential impact on European economies, echoing broader political and economic skepticism about unbalanced trade relations.
