Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday formally embraced the European Union's invitation for Canada to become its first associate member, casting the prospective pact as a bulwark for democratic values in a moment of transatlantic strain.
Addressing the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Carney said a Canada-EU alliance would "create a beacon for other democracies," describing it as "an alliance not defined by what we oppose but about what we are for: freedom, solidarity, prosperity, sustainability." His remarks drew a standing ovation from lawmakers.
The proposal was floated a day earlier by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who wrote on social media that such a partnership would "create a common prosperity and economic security space." Carney thanked her directly and noted that recent polling shows Canadians strongly favor "much closer ties with Europe."
"Canada welcomes this ambition," he told the chamber. "An alliance for the future is a unique positive approach that we will define together, building on our common strengths and based on our shared values."
Carney outlined areas for "deep cooperation," including critical minerals, defense industrial capacity, artificial intelligence, space, research, and financial services. The proposal comes amid escalating trade friction with the United States, where President Trump has imposed steep tariffs on Canadian goods and threatened further economic measures.
Speaking at a rally in North Carolina for GOP Senate candidate Michael Whatley, Trump dismissed the EU overture as "laughable," calling Canada "a terrible trading partner." He warned that if Ottawa moves forward, "if I think at all it's a hostile act, I will put very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe."
The threat adds another layer to an already tense trade environment, with analysts warning of ripple effects on North American supply chains. The escalating trade war has also become a political liability for Republicans in key Senate races, as tariff disputes threaten GOP holds in states reliant on cross-border commerce.
Carney, however, remained steadfast in his commitment to European integration. "We are not fair-weather allies. We do not pursue zero-sum deals," he said. "Our commitment to the rule of law and our unyielding defense of human dignity, individual freedom and democracy share the same deep roots, the same unwavering dedication. We hold common values, for which we have always fought and for whose defense we must always remain vigilant."
The prime minister's speech signals a deliberate pivot toward Europe at a moment when Washington's reliability as a partner is under question. Whether the associate membership talks advance will depend on both Brussels' internal consensus and Ottawa's ability to navigate the threat of U.S. retaliation.
