STRASBOURG, March 14 — The European Parliament today rejected the EU launching trade talks with the United States, dealing an unexpected blow to efforts by Brussels to avert a trade war with Washington.

MEPs meeting in the eastern French city of Strasbourg voted 223 against approving an EU mandate to start negotiations with the United States and 198 in favour, with 37 abstentions.

The European Parliament only has an advisory role with regard to the EU’s negotiating mandate, but it will have the final say once an agreement has been concluded. — AFP