# Could Canada join the EU as associate member?

> Canada and the EU are exploring closer ties, but Trump is threatening retaliation if it happens.
- Title: Could Canada join the EU as associate member? · BBC News
- Summary: 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…
- Keywords: canada, european union, mark carney, ursula von der leyen, donald trump, associate member, eu expansion, trade relations, international relations, political alliance, news, world
- Source: BBC News — https://bbc.co.uk/news/videos/c6wyz8kk2nepo
- Published: 2026-09-17T16:18:35.76+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: canada, european union, mark carney, ursula von der leyen, donald trump, associate member, eu expansion, trade relations, international relations, political alliance, news, world
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Canada and the EU are discussing an associate membership that would deepen their relationship, though US opposition complicates the path forward.