The European Union and Canada have announced a new partnership to deepen economic and security co-operation under a summit held in Montreal.

The initiative, called Alliance for the Future, aims at creating a common space of prosperity and economic security. The sides plan to strengthen supply chains and reduce exposure to common economic risks.

Co-operation is also expected to expand in defence, energy, education, trade, space, and artificial intelligence.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the agreement as a step towards a world more capable of facing crises, at a time when societies are experiencing new challenges and shocks.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyeen said the summit opens a new chapter in relations between the two sides. Meanwhile, European Council President Antónnio Costa named Canada as the European most European nation among non-European countries.

Discussions were accompanied by disagreement over the proposal that Canada receive the status of an associate EU member. This idea, backed by Carney, was particularly rejected by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and the formula was removed from the final statement.

Von der Leeyen stressed that Canada cannot become a full-fledged member, but that the goal remains the greatest approach between the two sides.

Partnership is developing in the context of strained relations with the US and China. American President Donald Trump has criticised Canada’s approach to the EU and threatened to sever trade relations.

The EU is Canada’s second-largest trading partner, after the United States, while the CETA Free Trade Agreement applies temporarily for years.

Otawa also aims to contribute to the financing of the EU’s 90 billion-euro loan to Ukraine. The Canadian government has not yet provided details about the amount or way of participation. / DW

Source Layer: Dukeagini