EU chief pitches 'associate member' status for Canada
EU President Ursula von der Leyen is proposing an 'associate member' status for Canada to strengthen ties in technology, defense, and energy. The move is seen as a strategic alignment between Brussels and Ottawa as both navigate a more hostile international environment.
Why it matters
This proposal suggests a significant shift in EU foreign policy, potentially creating a new tier of partnership for non-member states.
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen raised the prospect on Wednesday (September 16, 2026) of Canada becoming the 27-nation bloc's first "associate member”, as she pitched closer cooperation on tech, defence and energy to Canadian leader Mark Carney.
Ms. von der Leyen told the European Parliament in Strasbourg that as democracies face a "fracture in the international rules-based system", Brussels and Ottawa needed to pull closer together.
"I would like to work with you on opening the door for Canada to be the first associate member of the EU," Ms. von der Leyen told the Canadian Prime Minister, who was attending her annual keynote speech — drawing a standing ovation in the chamber.
Mr. Carney has been pursuing closer ties with the European Union, as both seek to pivot away from a hostile United States under President Donald Trump.
Also covering this story
4 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
EU's Ursula von der Leyen says she wants Canada to become an associate member
EU chief opens door for Canada to become 'associate member'
EU chief opens door for Canada to become 'associate member'
Von der Leyen opens door for Canada to become EU’s first associate member
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