Canada welcomes EU leaders to Montreal for talks on next steps in relationship

Canada is set to host European officials, including EU Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen, in Montreal this Thursday as the two sides discuss strengthening their relationship. Prime Minister Mark Carney will receive von der Leyen following months of efforts to deepen ties between the two regions. While membership in the EU is not being considered, officials on both sides aim to explore opportunities for closer collaboration in business, technology, clean energy, and critical minerals sectors.

Von der Leyen referred to the proposed partnership as "associate membership" within the 27-nation bloc, though some European leaders have objected to that label. European representatives have consistently used the term "alliance for the future" to characterize the relationship, a phrase previously approved by Carney. Tensions exist domestically as well, with Quebec Premier Paul St-Pierre Plamondon urging the federal government to permit him to deliver a speech at the event.

The agenda for Thursday includes a welcome dinner for elected and business leaders, followed by talks on Friday between Canadian and European officials. Global News asks for readers to add the outlet as a Preferred Source on Google to view more of their coverage in search results.