Staying with tariff issues. The EU Commissioner for Trade -- Cecilia Malmstrom -- met with US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross in Washington on Wednesday to seek an exemption from American tariffs on steel and aluminum exports. US Trade Representative, Robert E. Lighthizer said that a list of exemptions could be announced by the end of April.

Meanwhile, world leaders warned of retaliation against the tariffs. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Wednesday that the EU would take unambiguous countermeasures against the tariffs if necessary. French President Emmanuel Macron also urged the EU to take quick and strong steps against U.S. imports. Brazilian President Michel Temer also voiced opposition to protectionism of any form, while Turkey said it is considering retaliation for the US tariffs.