EU chief opens door for Canada to become 'associate member'

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will call for strengthening ties between the European Union and Canada during her speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who is attending as a guest of honour, will participate in the address before delivering his own remarks the following day.

The visit aims to boost relations between the two nations as both seek to reduce their dependence on the United States. Canada, under Carney's leadership, has been pursuing a unique alliance with the EU to diversify its partnerships amid growing US tariffs and competition from China. Both Brussels and Ottawa have acknowledged the high level of cooperation between their countries, but there is room for improvement.

Areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals are being examined for potential collaboration. The European Investment Bank is also being urged to support Canadian critical minerals projects, which could help reduce dependency on China for essential raw materials. Additionally, some EU nations have yet to ratify the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which could weaken the EU's credibility as a reliable trading partner if not addressed.

Talks are ongoing for various initiatives, including easing labor mobility rules, increasing student exchanges, and contributing to the EU's 90-billion-euro loan to Ukraine. The goal is to deepen the relationship across multiple fronts beyond just a free trade agreement.