Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, speaking before the European Parliament in Strasbourg, outlined Ottawa’s position on closer ties with the EU but did not fully endorse the «associate membership» idea proposed earlier. Instead, Carney identified specific areas for potential cooperation, including critical minerals, defense, AI, energy security, and space.
Potential areas for cooperation
Mark Carney also called for streamlining digital trade in non-agricultural goods and services, and for including Canada in the Erasmus+ student exchange program. «We welcome this ambition», the Prime Minister said, acknowledging Ursula von der Leyen, who was present in the chamber. He also noted that polls show a vast majority of Canadians support significantly closer ties with Europe.
This list of potential cooperation areas is the first attempt to add substance to a political proposal that remains largely undefined. The «associate membership» idea caused confusion earlier, as the European Commission had not discussed it in advance with EU member state governments, and no such status currently exists within the European Union.
Later on Wednesday, United States President Donald Trump stated that he might respond with «major tariffs» if Canada moves closer to the EU.
«An alliance for the future is a unique, positive approach that we will define together, building on our shared strengths and common values», Carney said.
Decision on associate membership
During a press conference following his speech, Carney was asked if the Canadian people would have a say on associate membership. The Prime Minister replied: «Of course. There will be a debate, and there will be a vote in the Parliament of Canada, but at this stage, it is just the beginning of the process».
Source: Politico
