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"The goal is to reduce industry tariffs to zero and ultimately fend off a trade conflict," Altmaier said in a statement, calling the earlier agreed EU mandate to enter trade talks with Washington a "breakthrough".
European Union countries gave final clearance on Monday to start formal trade talks with the United States after months of delay due to French resistance.
"The negotiations will not be easy, but we will hold them with determination, for the benefit of both sides," Altmaier said.