Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney used a speech to the European Parliament to endorse closer ties between Canada and the European Union, including the bloc’s proposal for an “associated membership.” The remarks came as Canada’s relationship with the United States has deteriorated and Ottawa looks to deepen cooperation with European partners.
Speaking in English, French and German, Carney emphasized what he described as shared democratic values and common interests. He praised European culture and said Canada and the EU were united by commitments to democracy, freedom, human rights and the rule of law.
“We are not fair-weather allies,” Carney told lawmakers, according to DW. He said Canada and Europe did not pursue “zero-sum deals” and shared a responsibility to defend human dignity, individual freedom and democracy.
Carney said Canada welcomed the “ambition” behind the EU’s proposed associated membership. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had said the EU was prepared to make Canada its first associate member, although such a position does not currently exist. The Wall Street Journal previously reported that Carney was exploring the idea, according to the source.
The proposal has drawn criticism from US President Donald Trump. He warned that Washington could impose “very serious tariffs” or stop trading with Europe on various goods if he viewed Canada’s possible association with the EU as a hostile act. Trump also called the prospect “laughable.”
DW reported that Canada and the United States have been involved in an escalating trade dispute since Carney and Trump failed to reach a deal this summer. Before his European visit, Carney said he wanted to establish a “unique alliance” with the EU, arguing that Canada and the bloc shared values and priorities and had complementary strengths.