Carney says deepening ‘alliance’ with European Union is a work in progress

Prime Minister Mark Carney stated in Toronto that Canada's relationship with the European Union, often referred to as an "alliance," is still in its early stages. The discussions are focused on strategic areas such as energy and critical minerals, but Carney emphasized that the ultimate goal is to enhance Canada's sovereignty and independence.

He explained that while there is an economic aspect to these talks, the real purpose is to ensure Canada is trading with and connected to partners it can rely on. Carney made these remarks after a speech at the Canada Investment Summit, which aims to attract $1 trillion in foreign investment to Canada over the next decade. His trip to France is part of ongoing tensions with the United States and is set against the backdrop of the European Union's "state of the union" debate.

Carney cautioned against any premature announcements about Canada's future relationship with the EU, noting that explorations of becoming an "associate" member began last June and will continue at an upcoming Montreal summit.