EU-US Trade Deal: Italy's Concerns and National Strategies

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed optimism over a newly reached trade agreement between the European Union and the United States, while also voicing the need for more insight into its specifics.

Earlier, Washington secured a framework deal imposing a 15% tariff on EU goods, a move that Italy, as a key exporter to the US, views with caution given its 40 billion euro trade surplus. In her remarks from Addis Ababa, Meloni highlighted the necessity of avoiding direct confrontation across the Atlantic.

Despite appreciating the agreement's promise of stability, Meloni stressed the need for clarity on crucial sectors like pharmaceuticals and automotive, potential agricultural exemptions, and aspects related to investments and gas purchases. She emphasized Italy's readiness to provide national-level support and request European assistance for affected sectors.

(With inputs from agencies.)