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Prime Minister Mark Carney has characterized Canada as “the most European of non-European countries.” This intriguing statement highlights Canada’s cultural affinities with Europe, but it also reflects a pragmatic political strategy. In a landscape where formal EU membership seems complex, Carney is seeking unprecedented closeness with the bloc to mitigate reliance on an unpredictable United States.
This week, Carney is set to make history by attending the “State of the European Union” address in Strasbourg, France—marking the first time a head of government from Canada will participate in this significant event. Following this, he will address the European Parliament, further amplifying Canada’s role on the European stage. Additionally, Carney will meet Britain’s new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, in Liverpool, reinforcing ties across the Atlantic.
As noted by Tobias Cremer, a German EU lawmaker, Carney’s presence is a “tremendous symbol” of the burgeoning relationship between Canada and the European Union. Cremer emphasized, “Canada possesses many resources that Europe is currently short of, particularly in energy, rare earths, and raw minerals,” suggesting a mutual benefit in partnership.
The challenges posed by U.S. trade policies have severely impacted Canada, which is closely integrated with its southern neighbor. With President Donald Trump’s return to office, both Canada and the EU share a common interest in diversifying their economic partners, as articulated by Cremer.
Future EU Member?
Carney has already taken significant steps toward closer ties with the EU. Canada became the first non-EU country to participate in the bloc’s defense procurement program, further signaling its commitment to deeper collaboration. Notably, Carney even facilitated Canada’s entry into the hugely popular cultural event, Eurovision.
Next month, Carney plans to host an EU-Canada summit in Montreal. It is expected that discussions will revolve around developing a robust economic and security partnership that could reshape future interactions.
Javier Moreno Sanchez, a Spanish EU lawmaker who leads a parliamentary delegation for relationships with Canada, pointed out that both Ottawa and Brussels align on several crucial issues, such as climate change and artificial intelligence. Efforts are now underway to establish a digital trade agreement, building off existing frameworks like CETA, which has room for greater utilization by small and medium-sized enterprises.
Speculation regarding Canada’s potential full EU membership has increased in light of the current political atmosphere, especially during Trump’s second term. However, Carney clarified Canada’s position, stating, “We’re not looking to become a member of the European Union. What we seek is a unique alliance that reflects our shared values, priorities, and complementary strengths.”
‘Not Realistic’
An April poll revealed that 57 percent of Canadians support the idea of EU membership. However, the path to membership raises legal questions, particularly regarding eligibility. Article 49 of the EU treaty stipulates that only “a European state” committed to fundamental democratic principles can apply for membership. Although geographical criteria are not strictly defined, many believe Canada does not meet this basic requirement.
Ignacio Garcia Bercero from the Brussels think tank Bruegel expressed skepticism about the feasibility of Canada joining the EU, stating, “I don’t really see that this is a realistic prospect.” This viewpoint echoes past instances, such as Morocco’s unsuccessful bid for membership in 1987, which was rejected on the grounds that it was not considered a European state.
While Sanchez humorously remarked that Canada is “not that far” geographically from Europe—citing its proximity to Greenland—the reality remains that close relations can be nurtured without full membership. Similar arrangements exist with countries like Iceland and Switzerland. Nonetheless, the logistics of shipping goods between Canada and the EU adds layers of complexity, and the European market is unlikely to eclipse the American market for Canada anytime soon. In July, a staggering 70 percent of Canadian exports were directed to the U.S., compared to just five percent to the EU.
Despite the hurdles, Cremer reiterated the importance of fostering closer collaborations, asserting, “the closer we can co-operate, the better.”
