European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney continue to push for closer ties between the EU and Canada, despite internal EU opposition to the term 'associate member.' Von der Leyen, who first proposed the concept last month, emphasized that the relationship would be 'an association without accession,' focusing on areas like AI, climate, and security. The summit in Montreal, however, will not include the term in its final declaration, as Germany and other EU members have pushed to exclude it.
Von der Leyen reiterated her vision for Canada as an 'associate member' during the summit, describing it as a partnership that comes 'closer to membership than anything we have done before.' She highlighted the importance of aligning policies on governance, research, and innovation. However, the final declaration, expected on Oct 30, will instead use the term 'ever closer association,' a move backed by Germany and other EU members who question the legal status of the 'associate member' concept.
Canada's push for closer ties with the EU is part of a broader strategy to reduce economic and security reliance on the US, particularly in light of Trump's tariffs on Canadian goods. Experts note that while the EU and Canada share a free trade agreement and cultural ties, the relationship remains in its early stages, with challenges in aligning regulatory frameworks and securing common supply chains. Both sides have signaled commitment to deepening ties, though the exact nature of the partnership remains undefined.
Despite the EU's internal opposition to the 'associate member' term, von der Leyen and Carney have continued to advocate for the concept, emphasizing that the name is less important than the practical benefits of the partnership. The summit aims to strengthen cooperation in areas like AI, climate, and energy, while also exploring opportunities for Canadian participation in EU programs and initiatives. The final declaration will focus on building a 'highest level' relationship, though the specifics of how this will be achieved remain to be determined.