Finland's Mari Kiviniemi Discusses Tariffs and Tensions Between the EU and China

Understanding the Risks of Tariffs and Tensions

Former Finnish Prime Minister Mari Kiviniemi addressed critical economic challenges arising from tariffs and escalating tensions between China and the European Union during her remarks at the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) conference in Samarkand. Kiviniemi expressed great concern about how these geopolitical frictions could undermine the global economy, stating, 'Protectionism and tariffs harm the world economy, and by that, it harms all of society.'

Current Situation Between the EU and China

The European Union has recently implemented additional import tariffs on several major Chinese products, a move that has sparked fears of a burgeoning trade war. Beijing has reacted with countermeasures, heightening tensions further. Kiviniemi warned that both sides must engage in open discussions to address these concerns effectively.

Importance of Transparency

Kiviniemi emphasized transparency as a vital measure in addressing security fears linked to China. 'Openness and transparency are kind of the best remedy for fears there are in terms of security,' she asserted. The former PM suggests that only through clear communication can the roots of these tensions potentially be resolved.