Ref. Ares(2013)135789 - 04/02/2013
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ġc^i^nàkUem·
Brussels,
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4
02,
2015
Dear Taoiseach,
At our meeting on 7-8 February, we will have an important and timely discussion on
the contribution of trade to growth andjobs.
Trade is an essential lever in our strategy to boost growth and jobs in the EU. At a
time of weak economic growth and essential fiscal consolidation, trade is making a
vital contribution to our recovery: last year external demand was the main source of
growth and contributed an extra 0.9% to EU GDP. In the future, 90% of world-wide
economic growth is expected to be generated outside Europe. Grasping the
opportunities afforded by these external sources of growth will be critical for the
future dynamism and sustainability of our economy.
We have a solid platform to build upon. Europe is the world's biggest trading power.
It is not widely known that Europe has broadly maintained its share of world exports
despite intensifying competition from emerging economies. In fact, the evolution of
Europe's market share compares favourably with other industrialised economies. We
are also well-placed to tap into the vast potential for future global growth provided
that we pursue a strategic and enlightened approach to our international trade
relations. What is at stake is not just the capacity to maintain or expand market
shares but also the ability of the EU to compete; to attract global investment and join
global value chains; and to help our citizens and businesses to take up opportunities
across the world.
We must be proactive and ambitious in the pursuit of these goals. While preserving
and reinforcing the centrality of the multilateral trading system is in our long-term
strategic interest, in the current environment we must also be more proactive in our
bilateral relationships. Working together closely, we have already concluded and
implemented landmark agreements such as the EU - Korea Free Trade Agreement.
We have also concluded negotiations with Singapore, expect to conclude soon with
Canada and we hope to do likewise with India. We will shortly start negotiations with
Japan and look forward to a positive outcome of the High Level Working Group on
Jobs and Growth for a possible comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the United
States. The importance of these strategic partners cannot be overstated. To turn these
opportunities into reality will require us to have a clear vision of our long-term
interests ; to manage the complexity and trade-offs associated with any trade
agreement ; to speak with one voice; and to engage constructively with our partners.
As always, political will and collective discipline will be crucial to our success.