Australia and New Zealand could follow Canada into associated EU membership, Metsola tells Euronews

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has told Euronews that countries including Australia and New Zealand could follow Canada in becoming “associate members” of the European Union as like-minded nations seek closer ties.Speaking exclusively to Europe Today ahead of a speech by Canadian Prime MInister Mark Carny on Thursday, Metsola described the proposed status as a third way between full EU membership and candidate status.“There are countries with which we want to deepen our relationship,” Metsola said."I don't doubt that it will include other countries, and others will come knocking at our door...In such times of uncertainty, having friends matters."The EU already has trade agreements with both countries, providing a potential starting point for closer cooperation.