EU chief opens door for Canada to become 'associate member'
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has expressed support for Canada becoming the EU's first associate member to strengthen ties amid global geopolitical shifts. The proposal aims to enhance cooperation on trade, defense, and critical technology, particularly as Canada navigates strained relations with the US.
Why it matters
This represents a significant shift in international alliances, potentially creating a new model for non-European nations to integrate with the EU bloc.
Image source, EPA By Amy Walker Published 10 minutes ago The president of the European Commission has backed proposals for Canada to become the EU's first "associate member".
Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament on Wednesday she wanted to work on "opening the door" for Canada, which would involve closer ties on various key sectors.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney last week spoke of seeking a "unique alliance" with the EU, coming as he faces tense relations with the US and Donald Trump.
Without mentioning the US president by name, von der Leyen said offering Canada some sort of EU membership was "not a partnership against anyone else, but for our common strength."
She added: "Partnerships are a strategic choice for Europe. But they also respond to the fracture in the international rules-based system".
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