LONDON — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a address to the European Parliament on Thursday, calling for a significant strengthening of ties between Canada and the European Union against the backdrop of an escalating trade and diplomatic conflict with the United States.
Speaking in Strasbourg, France, Carney emphasized that while both nations are powerful individually, their combined strengths offer greater resilience. “Canada and Europe are each strong. Canada and Europe are stronger together,” he told lawmakers. He urged both sides to leverage their complementary assets and shared areas of interest, stating, “We should build on each other’s strengths — deliberately, systematically and rapidly.”
The prime minister outlined several key areas for collaboration, including securing strategic autonomy in critical minerals, defense industrial capacity, artificial intelligence and computing, energy security, and space exploration. He also advocated for barrier-free digital trade in non-agricultural goods and services, alongside enhanced mobility for students and workers across the Atlantic.
Addressing potential concerns about the geopolitical implications of a closer partnership, Carney clarified that his proposal was not intended to create a rival power bloc. “I’m not proposing a third bloc in order to become a great power rival — only with better manners,” he said, drawing laughter from the chamber. Although the ongoing spat with President Donald Trump’s administration provided the context for the visit, Carney did not explicitly name the US or Trump during his speech.
He further asserted that Canada and Europe are not seeking dominance but rather resilience to protect their open markets, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and democratic values from external coercion.
The push for closer integration comes shortly after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans to elevate the relationship. On Wednesday, von der Leyen revealed that the EU intends to grant Canada the status of its first-ever “associate member.”
“We want to bring the relationship with Canada to the highest level possible. We must urgently reimagine our partnerships. So, I would like to work with you on opening the door for Canada to be the first associate member of the EU,” von der Leyen said.
Smart move pivoting to the EU, but what about long-term economic dependency? Seems risky.
I love the humor about ‘better manners’! Needed a laugh during such serious geopolitical talk.
Stronger together indeed. But can Europe really back this up when energy costs are soaring?
This associate membership status is a huge deal. It signals real commitment, not just polite words.