U.S. Vice President JD Vance signals interest in renewed long-term trade negotiations with EU

ROME — Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hosted a high-level trilateral meeting in Rome on Friday, bringing together U.S. Vice President JD Vance and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The summit marks a symbolic and strategic step in revitalizing transatlantic relations amid global economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

Calling the meeting a potential “new beginning,” Meloni stressed the importance of U.S.-EU cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, and security. Her remarks underscored growing European interest in deepening economic ties with Washington.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance echoed that sentiment, stating that the United States is committed to advancing long-term trade negotiations with the European Union.

“We see this as an opportunity to modernize and expand our economic relationship with our European partners,” Vance said during a brief press conference following the meeting.

European Commission President von der Leyen welcomed the discussions, emphasizing mutual interests in securing supply chains, ensuring fair digital trade practices, and addressing the climate transition.

Though no formal agreements were signed, officials described the meeting as constructive and forward-looking, with working groups expected to continue talks in the coming months.

The trilateral meeting also comes amid shifting dynamics in global trade, with the U.S., EU, and key allies increasingly seeking to reduce dependence on adversarial economies, particularly China.