Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada is seeking a new form of close cooperation with the European Union, while ruling out membership in the bloc. He made the comments ahead of a planned visit to France and a summit between Canada and the EU in Montreal.
“We’re not looking to become a member of the European Union,” Carney told reporters at the Toronto International Film Festival, according to DW. Instead, he said Ottawa would begin discussions on “a unique alliance” with the bloc, citing shared values, priorities and complementary strengths.
Carney was clarifying an earlier report by the Wall Street Journal that Canada was considering associate membership. DW reported that the EU was open to such an idea, although the bloc would have to create the status for Canada. Carney’s remarks did not endorse that proposal.
The Canadian leader is scheduled to attend the EU’s “State of the European Union” address in Strasbourg, becoming the first head of government to do so, before speaking at the European Parliament. His visit was described by German European lawmaker Tobias Cremer as a “tremendous symbol” of closer relations.
Cremer said Canada could help address European shortages of energy, rare earths and other raw materials. Canada has already become the first non-EU country to join the bloc’s defense procurement program, according to DW.
Carney said the Montreal summit would begin discussions on a “much stronger and deeper economic and security partnership.” The effort comes as Canada’s trade relationship with the United States, its largest trading partner and neighbor, is deteriorating in an escalating trade war.