Metsola allowed Australia and New Zealand to obtain the status of associate members of the EU

Australia and New Zealand may in the future follow Canada's example and become "associate members" of the European Union (EU). This was stated by the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola, Euronews reports.

“There are countries with which we want to deepen our relationships... I have no doubt that this will affect other countries and they will come knocking on our door... In such times of uncertainty, having friends is of great importance,” she said.

According to the President of the European Parliament, associate membership could become a “third way” between full accession to the EU and the status of a candidate country. It is expected that this format will deepen trade ties, expand access to critical raw materials and bring the legislation of partner countries closer to EU standards.

At the same time, Metsola emphasized that negotiations on the specific parameters of associate membership are still at an early stage.