Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney endorsed the European Union's proposal to make Canada its first associate member, emphasizing cooperation on defense, critical minerals, and energy security. The move comes as tensions with the U.S. and China rise, and as the EU seeks to strengthen alliances against global challenges.
Carney, speaking in Strasbourg, highlighted shared values and a commitment to democratic principles, rejecting any notion of forming a new power bloc. He stressed that the partnership would focus on resilience and sovereignty, not dominance, amid growing geopolitical pressures from Trump's administration and a rising China.
The EU and Canada aim to deepen strategic ties through areas like digital trade and academic exchange, while the EU's Von der Leyen outlined plans for a European Security Council to enhance collective security. The proposal faces skepticism from Trump, who warned of heavy tariffs if perceived as a hostile act.
The EU and Canada both emphasize a non-dominant, values-driven partnership, with the EU clarifying that the associate membership is not a threat to other nations but a step towards collective strength in a fragmented global order.