DAVOS, SWITZERLAND – JANUARY 21: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attends the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting on January 21, 2025 in Davos, Switzerland. Photography: Halil Sagirkaya/Anadolu via Getty Images)
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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Tuesday that the European Union was “open for business” and keen on global partnerships, as the world braced for protectionism from incoming U.S. President Donald Trump.
“Europe will seek cooperation, not only with like-minded long-term friends, but also with any country that shares our interests,” von der Leyen said in a formal speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. She suggested, When dealing with challenges such as climate change and artificial intelligence, countries must work together even in the context of “fierce competition.”
“Our message to the world is simple: We are ready to work with you if we can achieve mutual benefit. If you want to upgrade your cleantech industry, if you want to upgrade your digital infrastructure, Europe is open for business,” Feng Delaine said.
The European Commission president also noted that she sees growing interest around the world in engaging more with Europe, pointing to the bloc’s partnerships with Switzerland, Mexico and South American trade bloc Mercosur.
Von der Leyen said Europe is seeking to strengthen cooperation with any country willing to cooperate, including partners such as the United States, noting the close integration of the U.S. and EU economies. For example, she noted that many U.S. workers are employed by European companies, and she also pointed to common supply chains and trade between the two countries.
“There’s a lot of risk on both sides,” she said. “Our priority is to engage early, discuss common interests and be ready to negotiate. We will be pragmatic, but we will always stick to our principles, we will protect our interests and safeguard our values, because this is Europe’s Way.
Questions have arisen about the future of the EU’s trade relationship with its historic ally Washington after Trump threatened to impose tariffs on EU goods. These measures could have a significant impact on the EU economy.
“While some people in Europe may not like this new reality, we are ready to deal with it,” von der Leyen said.
The European Commission president also said that “we should strive for mutual benefit” when talking to China, the world’s second-largest economy, with which the EU has been at odds over trade and tariffs. The two sides’ long-standing tit-for-tat economic measures include the EU imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports and Beijing launching an anti-dumping investigation into brandy from the EU. China has also been the target of Trump’s trade threats.
“2025 marks the 50th anniversary of our alliance’s relationship with China. I see this as an opportunity to engage and deepen our relationship with China and, where possible, expand trade and investment ties. Now is the time to seek a more balanced relationship with China It’s time,” von der Leyen said.
