Ursula von der Leyen touts new EU-US relationship after Joe Biden elected

Outgoing President Donald Trump often had an uneasy relationship with the EU

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said wounds could be healed. Reuters

Europe needs a new transatlantic relationship with the US following Joe Biden's presidential victory, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Tuesday, as she put forward the possibility of an enhanced partnership with the incoming administration.

Ms von der Leyen said the US, like many other countries, had changed in recent years, but that “divisions can always be bridged, wounds can be healed.”

"But some shifts in priorities and perceptions run much deeper than one politician or administration. And they will not disappear because of one election," Ms von der Leyen told EU ambassadors. She did not mention outgoing President Donald Trump, who had an uneasy relationship with the EU, in her speech.

Mr Trump has previously threatened a trade war and withdrawn the US from international accords and organisations.

The European Commission chief said the EU-US relationship was based on shared values and history, and an enduring common belief in building a more peaceful and prosperous world.

“But in a changing global landscape, I believe it is time for a new transatlantic agenda fit for today's world.

“And I believe it is Europe who should take the initiative, with an offer to work together with the new administration on areas that can strengthen our bilateral and multilateral partnerships.

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“This should cover everything from security to sustainability, from tech regulation to trade, from levelling the global economic playing field to strengthening global institutions,” she said.

Ms von der Leyen again congratulated Mr Biden and said Vice-President-elect Kamala Harris had “just shattered multiple glass ceilings in one go”.