Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has welcomed a European Union proposal to establish Canada as the bloc’s first associate member, calling for deeper cooperation between Ottawa and European countries.
Speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Thursday, Carney said Canada and Europe could work more closely on defence, critical minerals, energy security, technology and trade.
The proposal was announced a day earlier by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who said the EU wanted to open the door to Canada becoming its first associate member.
Canada Seeks Closer European Partnership
Carney described Canada and Europe as stronger when working together amid growing geopolitical and economic pressures.
He said closer cooperation could help both sides strengthen their strategic capabilities and reduce vulnerabilities in areas such as energy and supply chains.
The Canadian leader also highlighted the importance of critical minerals, artificial intelligence, digital trade and defence cooperation.
Proposal Is Not Full EU Membership
Carney stressed that Canada is not seeking to become a full member of the European Union.
Instead, he described the proposed arrangement as a different framework for closer cooperation between Canada and the 27-member bloc.
The proposed associate-member status does not currently exist under EU treaties. Its exact structure, rights and obligations would therefore have to be negotiated and agreed upon by the EU member states.
Trump Warns of Possible Tariffs
The proposal has drawn a response from US President Donald Trump, who said the move could lead to serious consequences if he regarded it as hostile to the United States.
Trump warned that Washington could impose substantial tariffs on Europe or restrict trade in some areas if the proposal was considered a hostile act.
Carney responded by saying the proposed Canada-Europe relationship was intended as a positive development.
He also maintained that Canada would make its own decisions about its international partnerships.
Energy and Critical Minerals
Carney said Canada could contribute to Europe’s energy security through supplies of liquefied natural gas and hydrogen.
He also pointed to Canada’s critical-mineral resources as an area where stronger cooperation could benefit both sides.
At the same time, he said Canada could gain from European expertise in clean-energy technologies.
The two sides already have a free-trade agreement and cooperate in areas including trade, research and security.
