EU Parliament committee backs removing duties on US goods

The European Parliament's trade committee has voted in favor of removing import duties on a wide range of goods originating from the United States. This decision is a significant step towards complying with an existing trade agreement and aims to avert a potential tariff conflict between the EU and the US. The committee's vote was 31 in favor and 6 against, indicating substantial support for the measure. Safeguards concerning steel and aluminum tariffs were included as part of the compromise. The chair of the committee explicitly stated that new US tariffs are considered unacceptable. The final decision rests with the full European Parliament, which is scheduled to hold a vote on June 16.

In parallel developments, the European Union is nearing the finalization of new passenger protection regulations, a process that has been ongoing for more than ten years. These regulations have been the subject of prolonged negotiations involving policymakers, consumer advocacy groups, and airline industry lobbyists. The core of these discussions has revolved around establishing comprehensive safeguards for air travelers.

Furthermore, an EU official has commended Albania for its progress in its bid for EU membership. The official specifically credited Prime Minister Edi Rama's commitment for the advancements made. This positive assessment comes in anticipation of the upcoming EU-Western Balkans Summit.

Separately, UK Brexit Secretary David Davis has indicated that the probability of Britain exiting the European Union without a trade deal has notably diminished. This sentiment follows a recent agreement reached in Brussels, suggesting a more optimistic outlook for a structured departure.