Read a transcript of Carney’s speech to the European Parliament

Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the European Parliament on Thursday, advocating for increased cooperation and trade between Canada and the European Union. He emphasized the importance of working together in areas like artificial intelligence, critical minerals, and defense. Carney recalled a symbolic oak tree in Germany, which bore Goethe's name and witnessed humanity's moral failures.

He drew parallels between the oak tree and the values shared by Canada and Europe, which have endured despite challenges. Carney highlighted that freedom, life, and human dignity must be continuously earned. He stressed that a strong economy serves as a means to create a just society, emphasizing the shared commitment to values such as the rule of law, human dignity, and democracy.

Carney also pointed out the challenges faced by both nations, including climate change, the erosion of democratic norms, and the weaponization of trade. He stressed the need to strengthen economic integration while acknowledging the vulnerabilities presented by modern technology and its potential to control access rules and data.

Carney concluded by emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and resilience, noting that Canada and the European Union can complement each other by addressing gaps in strategic capabilities collectively.