Canada could thus become the first associated member of the European Union. Von der Leyen proposed to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to jointly pave the way for such a new form of cooperation. Von der Leyen made her proposal in her annual State of the Union address at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Carney attended the speech. Canada and the EU have long been discussing much closer cooperation.
The new European Security Council (including non-EU countries) is intended to function alongside the existing military cooperation within NATO. In recent years, this extensive consultation has already taken shape in support of Ukraine. Another factor is that the United States more often pursues its own course, including in economic matters.
Rapport
Carney’s visit to Strasbourg underscores Canada’s rapprochement with the EU. He himself will address the European Parliament on Thursday. Prior to his visit, Carney emphasized that Canada does not want to become an ordinary member of the European Union. He speaks of a 'unique alliance.'
Promotion
The precise form of this alliance is not yet determined. According to Carney, his visit to Strasbourg marks the beginning of an ambitious process, not its endpoint. The EU already has various types of trade agreements with several non-EU countries. Australia has also expressed interest in this new 'association membership.'
Less with USA
The rapprochement comes against the backdrop of the trade conflict between Canada and the United States. Relations have deteriorated due to U.S. import tariffs. Canada is therefore trying to further diversify its economic and security relationships and reduce its dependence on the U.S. The EU is also working on spreading trade relations across multiple countries.
Resources
The CETA trade agreement already provides a basis for further economic cooperation. Almost all trade between Canada and the EU is thus free of import tariffs. However, the possibilities of the agreement are not yet fully utilized. Especially small and medium-sized enterprises still insufficiently make use of the opportunities for trade.
Defence also forms an important component of the rapprochement. Canada already cooperates with Europe in this area. Both parties also see opportunities for further cooperation in energy and critical raw materials. Canadian natural resources and energy supplies can thereby be more strongly connected with the European market and production.
Broad support
There is broad support in Canada for closer cooperation. A poll from early September shows that 80 percent support further strategic cooperation with the EU in the fields of foreign policy, defence, and economy. Additionally, 81 percent support closer integration, including easier trade, travel, work, and study.
The further elaboration will not be completed in Strasbourg. Both Canadian and European parties consider the current discussions the beginning of a process. A next important step is expected at the summit between Canada and the EU at the end of October, when both parties aim to elevate their relationship to a higher level.