Moreover, since Monday, 11 May, the Louise Weiss building in Strasbourg has been transformed in a screening center to test the general population under the supervision of the Regional Health Agency and the Prefecture. To conclude, Mr Welle stressed the need to better communicate what the European institutions are doing during this crisis not only on legislation developed to tackle the COVID-19 outbreak but also on actions aimed to support the local communities in which they operate.
The European Parliament acts during COVID-19 times
For the seventh edition of its ‘Town Hall’ for members, AmCham EU connected with Klaus Welle, Secretary-General, European Parliament. In his remarks, Mr Welle summarised the measures taken by the European Parliament during the COVID-19 crisis. Business continuity has been guaranteed thanks to a digital upgrade that allows remote voting, participation to the Committees’ meetings as well as to the Plenary sessions and on Monday, 8 June, the first virtual trialogue will take place.
Beyond ensuring the protection of its personnel and business continuity in the new virtual environment, the European Parliament also implemented some practical solidarity measures such as using its canteens to prepare meals for people in need as well as for medical staff; protecting vulnerable women by accommodating them on the European Parliament premises in Brussels and using its cars and truck fleet for transportation of food to doctors and nurses.
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Implementing the EU-US Joint Statement
With the EU having formally adopted the tariff reductions agreed under the EU-US Framework Agreement, the two sides now have an opportunity to enter a new phase.
The agreement has the potential to help restore stability and predictability for citizens and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic and provide the basis for continued collaborationbetween the EU and US. The goal should be to bring their shared $9.8 trillion commercial relationship to a more constructive place, focusing on cooperation where interests align.
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16 Jun 2026
European Parliament plenary vote paves way for stronger transatlantic marketplace
Today, the European Parliament took a positive step to bring a degree of predictability to the transatlantic trade and investment climate. With their decision to approve tariff reductions on certain imports from the US, MEPs have demonstrated the EU’s commitment to honouring its side of the EU-US Framework Agreement.
Given the importance of the $9.8 trillion transatlantic marketplace for jobs and prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic, the EU and the US must now continue down this track, pursuing cooperation based on the Framework Agreement. While AmCham EU opposes tariffs, the EU‑US Framework Agreement provides the most realistic path to de‑escalation in trade tensions and a more constructive relationship.
With the initial tariff reductions adopted, the EU and the US can move to advance other priorities identified in the August 2025 EU-US Joint Statement. In particular, the two sides should focus on joint action in four areas: tackling shared geopolitical challenges, bolstering supply chain security, strengthening transatlantic digital commerce and striking mutual recognition agreements (AmCham EU has set out these recommendations here). Cooperation in these four areas will bring benefits to American and European businesses alike.
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Relay for Life 2026
From Saturday, 13 to Sunday, 14 June, AmCham EU staff, members, alumni and their families took part in the 24 hour Relay for Life at the Stade du Pachy in Waterloo, Belgium. Together, they walked, campaigned and raised funds to support the fight against cancer. For all involved, staying on the track for a full day was a small but meaningful way to honour the perseverance of those living with cancer and to show support for their loved ones. Couldn't join us? You can still make a contribution here.
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