Von der Leyen Floats Idea of Canada's Associate EU Membership

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has hinted at the possibility of Canada obtaining associate membership in the European Union, according to a Bloomberg Opinion editorial column published by the Taipei Times.

The column suggests that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is open to this idea, and that Canada seeks to strengthen its relations with other countries amid Washington's tariff policy. The US and Canada have a closely integrated trading system, but its weakening harms both countries, especially Canada's smaller economy.

Closer ties with the EU could create mutual benefits and new opportunities for Canada, as well as demonstrate to Washington that Ottawa has alternatives. However, there is no clear model for associate membership in the EU, and it would require a new comprehensive treaty and the unanimous consent of current members.