Key facts
- Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament's trade committee, is an obstacle to a transatlantic trade deal.
- Lange's actions have caused frustration in Washington and Brussels.
- Lange stated he achieved what Europe needed, even if not all his objectives were met.
Bernd Lange, the chair of the European Parliament's trade committee, has emerged as a significant obstacle to a transatlantic trade deal, delaying progress for months and causing frustration in both Washington and Brussels. EU governments had endorsed the trade deal with the U.S. with the aim of fulfilling Brussels' commitments, avoiding a tariff war, and protecting transatlantic stability. However, Lange indicated that while he did not achieve every objective, he secured what was necessary for Europe.