From BBC News · · 1m 10s
Could Canada join the EU as associate member?
Canada and the EU are exploring closer ties, but Trump is threatening retaliation if it happens.
In brief
Canada and the EU are exploring closer ties, but Trump is threatening retaliation if it happens. Canada and the EU are discussing an associate membership that would deepen their relationship, though US opposition complicates the path forward. Originally reported by BBC News.
Canada explores EU ties
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the European Parliament on Thursday as discussions continue about deepening Canada's relationship with the European Union.
Associate member status on table
Carney said he welcomed the EU's ambition for Canada to become an associate member, signaling openness to a new type of partnership.
“welcomed the EU's "ambition" for Canada to become an "associate member"”
EU wants to open the door
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told Parliament she wants to work on opening the door for Canada, involving closer ties on key sectors.
Trump threatens retaliation
US President Donald Trump has threatened to take action against the EU if it makes Canada its first associate member, complicating the negotiations.
What associate membership means
The arrangement would give Canada closer economic and political ties to the EU without full membership, creating a new category of partnership.
The main idea
Canada and the EU are discussing an associate membership that would deepen their relationship, though US opposition complicates the path forward.
