Former president of the European Council: Trade war is not the right option

Charles Michel, former president of the European Council, former Belgian Prime Minister, distinguished professor at CEIBS, said in an interview on May 9 that trade war is not the right option.

On the contrary, those who attempted to launch a trade war could be affected by their decisions. Additional tariffs or trade barriers would pose a serious risk for more poverty for everyone. The European Union believes in international cooperation, free trade, fairness, reciprocity and respect for trade partners.

It is always open to have a dialogue to discuss, to identify what the concerns are, what the legitimate interest is. Meanwhile, the WTO has a fundamental role to play at the trade level.