Exhibit A The problem is that China and the US have about half of the world’s wealth. The EU (plus uk and other EEA) control another quarter. So as annoying as it is, the EU can either negotiate with one country (USA/China) or 160+ (the rest of the world) to achieve the same financial gain. Of course economics are not everything, but when you understand the picture above, you can start seeing the problem.

Sorry for my ignorance, but I think liberal means something else in my part of the world. Can you please tell me what’s your definition?

Edit: As I thought - you guys mean Neoliberalism. Even in the links below it’s mentioned that there was a split in terms. Language matters! Liberalism - a political and social philosophy that promotes individual rights and civil liberties (the opposite in the political spectrum from authoritarianism).

Let me introduce you to YAML, you’ll love it!