Canada expects to seal a deal in June to become the EU’s first ‘associate member’ — ‘everything short of full EU membership’

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Friday he expects to conclude negotiations with the European Union in June to make Canada the bloc’s first “associate member,” as both sides forge an unprecedented alliance to protect their sovereignty in a changing world order.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war and threats against traditional allies have accelerated efforts by Canada and Europe to reduce their dependence on Washington and strengthen their economic and security ties.

“What brings us together goes far beyond geography. We see the world through the same eyes,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. “These headwinds won’t stop blowing. This change is permanent.”

Carney said the alliance would help Canada and Europe withstand economic pressure and make their own decisions rather than be dictated to by more powerful countries.

Trump has suggested Canada’s proposed EU arrangement could be a “hostile act” and threatened tariffs on Europe if he considered it unfriendly.

The move is aimed at reinforcing sovereignty, Carney says

Asked whether Trump could eventually be invited to join the alliance, Carney did not directly answer but insisted it was not aimed against any country.

“It is about reinforcing sovereignty. Why? So we can........

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