US, EU agree to start discussion on precious minerals

Washington [US], March 11: US President Joe Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on March 10 agreed to start negotiations on precious minerals for electric cars.
Mr. Biden received von der Leyen at the White House as Europe continued to complain that subsidies for clean energy under the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and other regulations would make Europe "bleed". " investment and thereby harm the economy of the continent.
The IRA law, worth $430 billion, contains a provision that provides huge subsidies for products made in the United States to combat climate change and promote renewable energy.
The US passage of the bill last year angered European allies. They argue that allies should unite and form a common front to deal with greater threats from China.
The Biden administration seeks to address European concerns, while sticking to the core elements of the legislation.
In a joint statement after the meeting, the two leaders said they intend to "immediately launch efforts to negotiate a precious minerals agreement ", ensuring that minerals mined or processed in the EU remain safe. calculated when enjoying the advantages in the production of electric cars under the IRA.
"An agreement of this kind will further advance the common goals of the US and EU in increasing mineral production, processing and expanding access to valuable, sustainable mineral resources. reliable and do not abuse labor force," Reuters quoted the joint statement.
The war in Ukraine is also a key topic on the agenda between the two leaders.
Both Mr. Biden and Ms. von der Leyen highlighted the strength of the bilateral partnership, as well as the united support for Ukraine and Russia's efforts to hold responsible for the hostilities.
Source: ThanhNien Newspaper