Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called for a deeper alliance between Canada and the European Union during his address to the European Parliament’s plenary session.
Welcoming the Canadian prime minister, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said that the EU and Canada should strengthen their cooperation in key areas, including defence, trade, energy, education and research.
Carney also welcomed a proposal presented by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her State of the European Union address for Canada to become the first associated member within the proposed framework of cooperation.
“Canada and Europe should secure their strategic autonomy through deep cooperation across the full spectrum of their strategic capabilities,” the Canadian prime minister said.
He also outlined his vision of an alliance capable of safeguarding the independence of both sides while remaining open to other partners:
“An alliance strong enough that no one can dictate our choices. Open enough that others can join. Principled enough that our strength reinforces international law.”
Carney’s address highlighted the determination of Canada and the European Union to build a closer strategic relationship at a time of growing geopolitical tensions and major shifts in the international landscape.
