Tanaiste Simon Harris contradicts US and says 'trade imbalance' was not discussed with Marco Rubio

In a recent discussion, Tánaiste Harris and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed trade relations between the U.S. and Ireland. Harris noted that while trade was a topic, a specific trade imbalance was not mentioned during their 20-minute phone call. He emphasized that the U.S. has the right to review its trade policies, indicating a mutual acknowledgment of the importance of the transatlantic economic relationship. The conflicting statements from Harris and the U.S. press release highlight the complexities of international diplomatic discussions on trade issues.

Both leaders expressed eagerness to work together to address our shared interests. They discussed the U.S. priority to address the U.S.-Ireland trade imbalance.

The trade imbalance wasn't specifically referenced. I said that I understood it was absolutely open to any government to review its economic trade policies.

Read at Irish Independent