Canada and EU explore deepening transatlantic partnership

Relations between Canada and the European Union may enter a new phase due to shifting geopolitics and rising tensions with the United States. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to visit Strasbourg in mid-September, where he will attend the State of the Union address by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and address the European Parliament.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has described the visit as an opportunity to deepen ties. The potential rapprochement has sparked debate regarding whether Canada could establish a unique relationship with the EU or even seek membership in the long term. While a Nanos Research poll indicated that approximately 28% of Canadians support full membership and 29% support it partially, geographic constraints remain a significant hurdle, as EU treaties specify membership for ‘European states’.

Experts suggest that even if full membership is unlikely, new forms of cooperation could emerge. Beyond existing trade agreements, future collaboration may expand into defense, economy, energy, scientific research, and foreign policy, potentially following models similar to Norway’s relationship with the European single market.