When Trump took office, the EU said it was ready to do business with the world.

The European Union is “open for business” and keen on international partnerships, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Tuesday, as the world backed newly elected US President Donald Trump’s trade protectionism.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Von der Leyen said: “Europe needs cooperation not only with long-standing like-minded friends, but with all the countries we share. She pointed out that when challenges such as climate change and artificial intelligence arise, countries must work together, even against a backdrop of “fierce competition”.

“Our message to the world is simple: if there are mutual benefits in sight, we are ready to engage with you. If you want to improve your cleantech industries, if you want to boost your digital infrastructure, Europe is open for business,” von der Leyen said.

The head of the European Commission pointed out the growing interest from around the world to engage more with Europe and pointed out the alliance’s partnership with Switzerland, Mexico and the South American trade organization Mercosur.

Europe is looking to increase cooperation with countries that are open to cooperation, including partners like the United States, Von der Leyen said, pointing to the closer integration of the United States and European Union economies. For example, she stated that many American workers are employed by European companies, and pointed out that there is a common supply chain and trade between the two countries.

“There’s a lot at stake for both sides,” she said. “Our first task is to get involved early, discuss common interests and be ready to negotiate. We will be practical but we will always stand by our principles, protect our interests and uphold our values ​​because it is the European way.”

Questions have been raised about the EU’s future trade relationship with its historic ally Washington after Trump threatened to impose tariffs on goods from the EU. The measures could seriously damage the Union’s economy.

“Some people in Europe don’t like this new reality, but we are ready to deal with it,” von der Leyen said.

“We must strive for the common good,” the European Commission chief said as he spoke to China, the world’s second-largest economy, amid the bloc’s previous spat over trade and tariffs. Among other long-standing tit-for-tat economic measures, the EU has imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports and Beijing has begun anti-dumping inspections on EU brandy. China has also been concerned about Trump’s trade threats.

“2025 marks the 50th anniversary of our alliance’s diplomatic relations with China. I see it as an opportunity to bond and strengthen relations with China and expand trade and investment ties as much as possible. Now is the time to build a more balanced relationship with China,” Von der Leyen said.