Canada to discuss unique EU alliance, not membership

Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada will open talks on a “unique alliance” with the European Union, while stopping short of seeking full membership. He made the remarks in Toronto on Sunday as he prepared to speak to the European Parliament later this week. Carney said Canada and the EU share values, priorities, and complementary strengths. His comments came after a Wall Street Journal report said his government was exploring the most ambitious form of closer ties possible, including an “associate member” label. The report drew criticism from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who said Canada should never become the 28th EU state. A senior federal official told CBC that Ottawa is focused on deepening ties with Europe in a way that strengthens Canada’s sovereignty and does not involve giving up independence for market access. Cabinet ministers have said closer ties with Europe could help reduce Canada’s economic dependence on the United States as trade tensions continue. Carney is set to travel to Strasbourg, France, and Canada will host an EU summit at the end of October.