From Foreign Policy · Alexandra Sharp · · 2m
The EU's 28th State?
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen floats making Canada the bloc's first associate member.
In brief
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen floats making Canada the bloc's first associate member. Canada and the EU are exploring an unprecedented associate membership that could include visa-free work rights and expanded trade, driven by strained relations with Trump's America. Originally reported by Foreign…
EU proposes Canada as associate member
Von der Leyen suggested making Canada the bloc's first associate member, a proposal that would expand the EU beyond Europe for the first time.
“We must urgently reimagine our partnerships”
Carney pitches closer EU ties
The Canadian prime minister has been pitching the arrangement to European officials for months. Discussions focus on ties just short of full membership.
Visa-free work rights on the table
The partnership could allow Canadian citizens to live and work in EU member states without needing a visa.
Expanded collaboration beyond trade
The arrangement might bolster cooperation in defense production, critical minerals, economic security, and artificial intelligence development.
Canada wants maximum closeness
Canada's ambassador-designate to the EU said the country wants to get as close as possible to the bloc. Further talks are expected in October.
“to get as close as we possibly can”
Trump strains transatlantic relations
The proposal comes as both Canada's and Europe's relations with the United States under Trump are greatly strained.
“not a partnership against anyone else”
Tariff war hits Canada hard
The White House imposed tariffs on roughly $20 billion worth of Canadian goods last month. Canada retaliated with duties on around 700 U.S. products.
Massive bilateral trade at stake
Canada is one of America's largest trading partners. Bilateral trade accounted for around $872.3 billion in 2025.
Ottawa pivots away from Washington
Alongside Trump's threats to make Canada the 51st U.S. state, Ottawa has begun prioritizing its relationship with the EU over America.
Some EU states show caution
An EU diplomat warned about being careful when talking about trade access and preferential treatment, even with Canada.
“we all know we have to be careful when you start talking about trade access and preferential treatment”
Existing trade deal faces resistance
Ten EU member states have yet to ratify the bloc's 2017 free-trade deal with Canada, citing provisions that favor Canadian investors.
Sign of a fractured world order
Carney called the high-level discussions a sign of a rupture in the world order. He will address the European Parliament on Thursday.
“rupture in the world order”
What it means
Canada and the EU are exploring an unprecedented associate membership that could include visa-free work rights and expanded trade, driven by strained relations with Trump's America.
