‘Unique alliance’: Canada eyes EU ‘associate membership’ as Carney vs Trump trade war escalates

Canada PM Mark Carney is seeking a deeper “unique alliance” with the European Union as the Canada-US trade war with Donald Trump intensifies, amid reports of possible EU “associate membership.” Carney has ruled out full EU membership but wants stronger Canada-EU ties in trade, investment, defense, energy, AI and critical minerals as Ottawa looks to diversify beyond the US. The move comes as Carney prepares to address the European Parliament, with Canada and the EU exploring a deeper strategic and economic partnership.