President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola underlined the urgency and responsibility of both the EU and the US to reach a balanced and forward-looking deal.

"We are working until the last day. Now we have a little bit more time to find a comprehensive strategic agreement. We must be clear. We must also be honest. But we must help our industries, protect our consumers, and find an agreement," she said.

Answering Bruno Vespa's questions on Rai Uno's flagship programme Cinque Minuti, Metsola emphasized on the importance of avoiding a trade conflict with the United States and underscored the enduring strength of the transatlantic alliance. Asked whether a solution that works for both sides can be found by the 9th July deadline, imposed by US President Donald Trump, President Metsola said she is hopeful.

"We have always been clear that we don't want a tariff war," President Metsola stated. "That will not be good for our consumers. It won't be good for our businesses."

Highlighting the historic bond between Europe and the United States, Metsola noted that "the alliance between Europe and the United States is one of the oldest in the world-not only politically, but also economically. We have the same values."

Metsola engages with University Students

In Italy, President Metsola had an exchange with students in a discussion at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Milan, accompanied by Italian Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani and European Commissioner Raffaele Fitto, a statement by her office read.

There she said: "We must deliver results: jobs, security, peace and opportunity." President Metsola also met students at the Polytechnic of Turin, accompanied by the European and Italian football champion Leonardo Bonucci. President Metsola also visited Kilometro Rosso, an science innovation district in Bergamo, showcasing new technology created by European innovators.