On Thursday, a two‑day summit between Canada and the European Union began in Montreal. During a speech in the break, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that Canada, due to geographic reasons, cannot become a full EU member but that both sides aim to raise their relationship to the highest possible level. She said the talks included a proposal for Canada to become the EU’s first associate member, a status she has described as “associate membership without accession.” Von der Leyen added that this partnership would be closer than any previous format and that she has been advocating the idea since mid‑September, despite it not being part of EU treaties and facing opposition from several member states. European Council President António Costa also attended the summit. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that negotiations would continue next year. He stressed that the focus is not on wording but on the changes that will affect Canadians’ lives. Carney said a closer partnership would create new opportunities for Canadian students, business people and researchers, and would strengthen the country’s independence. He ruled out official EU accession, noting that parliamentary approval would be required for any elevated partnership. The summit is expected to launch the “Alliance for the Future” framework programme, covering cooperation in trade, defence, critical minerals, technology and research. Von der Leyen said that on Friday Canada and the EU will finalize an agreement granting Canadian companies, start‑ups and researchers access to the EU’s network of twelve super‑computers, thereby strengthening collaboration in artificial intelligence. The EU also plans to support joint investments in strategic supply chains and essential industries. The partnership will broaden Canadian participation in the Erasmus and Horizon programmes. Canada is the only non‑EU country involved in the EU’s €150 billion SAFE defence procurement programme, allowing Canadian firms to take part in joint European defence purchases.
Article source: Magyar Hirlap | Image credit: Magyar Hirlap