In Montreal, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen convened at the Canada–EU Business Forum Leaders’ Roundtable, setting a relaxed tone for discussions on forging a closer transatlantic partnership. The leaders outlined ambitions for a new Canada–EU alliance, including the exploration of an “associate member” idea.
The meeting, which began with humour and laughter as Carney welcomed participants, quickly moved to substantive discussions on reimagining the relationship between Canada and the European Union. Carney articulated a vision for an alliance built on shared values and complementary strengths, while von der Leyen called for closer alignment of policies, programmes, and governance.
Exploring a New Canada-EU Alliance
A key point of discussion was the potential for a deeper relationship, with Ursula von der Leyen stating, “we are exploring the idea of an associate member.” This concept, while still under exploration and without a formal definition, signals a significant ambition for future cooperation.
The leaders identified several critical areas for collaboration. These include artificial intelligence, finance, critical minerals, food security, and advanced manufacturing. Furthermore, discussions covered resilient supply chains, and defence and security, highlighting a comprehensive approach to strengthening ties.
Mark Carney underscored the broad benefits of such cooperation, linking it to increased opportunities for businesses and researchers, and making it easier for young people to live, work, and study across the Atlantic. Ursula von der Leyen echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the goal of “creating good jobs on both sides of the Atlantic” and envisioning Canada and the EU as the nucleus of a wider “alliance for the future,” open to “other like minded trusted partners.”
Both leaders placed businesses at the core of their discussions, actively seeking input on how public policy can best support investment, job creation, and stronger economic connections between Canada and the European Union.
What was discussed at the Canada-EU Business Forum?
- Leaders discussed forging a new Canada-EU alliance, exploring an “associate member” idea.
- Key cooperation areas included AI, finance, critical minerals, food security, advanced manufacturing, resilient supply chains, and defence and security.
- The focus was on creating business opportunities, jobs, and easier mobility for young people.
Who attended the Montreal meeting?
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen led the discussions at the Canada–EU Business Forum Leaders’ Roundtable in Montreal.
What is the “associate member” idea?
The “associate member” idea is a concept under exploration by Canada and the EU to foster closer alignment of policies, programmes, and governance. It is not a formally defined status or a concluded agreement at this stage.
