(ANSA-AFP) - BRUSSELS, 12 LUG - European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen hit out Saturday at new tariffs threatened by US President Donald Trump, and said the EU still sought a deal with Washington to avert the measures. "Imposing 30 percent tariffs on EU exports would disrupt essential transatlantic supply chains, to the detriment of businesses, consumers and patients on both sides of the Atlantic," von der Leyen said in a statement. "We remain ready to continue working towards an agreement by August 1. At the same time, we will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required," she added. Von der Leyen insisted that "few economies in the world match the European Union's level of openness and adherence to fair trading practices." "The EU has consistently prioritized a negotiated solution with the U.S., reflecting our commitment to dialogue, stability, and a constructive transatlantic partnership," she said. (ANSA-AFP).