The European Commission’s president has endorsed suggestions for Canada to become the EU’s first “associate member”. Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament on Wednesday that she intended to work on “opening the door” to Canada, which would entail closer relations in a variety of crucial industries.
Last week, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke of forming a “unique alliance” with the EU. The country now has tense relations with the United States, which is exacerbated by an ongoing trade dispute.
Without naming US President Donald Trump, von der Leyen stated that granting Canada EU membership was “not a partnership against anyone else, but for our common strength”. She continued, “Partnerships are a strategic option for Europe. However, they also address the fissure in the international rules-based system.”
Carney attended the annual keynote speech in Strasbourg and is scheduled to address parliament on Thursday. Trade talks between Canada and the United States ended last month, prompting a slew of new tariffs. Trump’s constant mention of becoming Canada the “51st state” has further fuelled tensions between the North American rivals.
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