Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney made a strong statement in support of a planned new alliance with the European Union. Speaking at the EU Parliament in Strasbourg on Thursday, he asserted that an “overwhelming majority of Canadians” favored closer relations with Europe. He warmly welcomed the “ambition” expressed by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen the day before, who had outlined a path that could lead to Canada achieving “associated” EU membership.
Carney described the alliance as a “unique, positive approach for the future,” which would be built upon shared values and strengths between Canada and Europe. He stressed that the goal is for both entities to secure their strategic autonomy through intensive cooperation across various domains. These strategic areas include critical minerals, defense, industrial capabilities, AI, computing power, energy security, space technology, and payment systems.
Furthermore, Carney emphasized the need to strive for “seamless digital trade in non-agricultural goods and a broad spectrum of services.” He also urged the deepening of interpersonal relations, allowing young people on both sides of the Atlantic to pursue work, education, and life wherever they wish.
At the same time, Carney was careful to clarify that the goal was not to become “a rival of the great powers-only with better manners.” While he did not mention US President Donald Trump by name during his speech, he evidently was referring to him. The head of government stated, “We are not striving for power to dominate others.” Instead, he continued, “We are aiming for resilience, ensuring that no one can control our open markets, undermine our sovereignty, threaten our territorial integrity, or erode our freedoms, our democracies, or our rule of law.”
