WASHINGTON – United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai today met with France’s Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade, Olivier Becht. Ambassador Tai and Minister Becht last met in October 2023 in Osaka, Japan ahead of the G7 Trade Ministers’ Meeting.
Ambassador Tai and Minister Becht affirmed the shared desire of the United States and France to continue constructive U.S.-EU engagement toward a global arrangement on sustainable steel and aluminum. They agreed on the importance of addressing overcapacity and carbon intensity given the adverse impacts on the steel and aluminum industries and workers on both sides of the Atlantic.
Ambassador Tai and Minister Becht also discussed the ongoing U.S.-EU Critical Minerals Agreement negotiations. Ambassador Tai noted the United States’ commitment to reaching an ambitious and high standard agreement, particularly on labor and environmental provisions. The ministers discussed the World Trade Organization, the importance of reform, and the need to improve all of the organization's functions, including the dispute settlement system. Finally, the ministers expressed strong support for the ongoing work of the U.S.-EU Large Civil Aircraft Working Group.
Ambassador Tai and Minister Becht agreed to remain in close contact on these issues in order to further strengthen cooperation between the United States and the European Union, as well as the bilateral relationship between the U.S. and France.
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