Canada seeks EU security and economic alliance

The Liberal politician last said on Sunday that Canada was not seeking to become a member of the EU. In his words, the goal is a “unique security and economic alliance”.

For Canada, this is also about the desired economic policy realignment in view of the ever-escalating dispute with its powerful neighboring country, the USA. The US recently imposed tariffs of up to 50 percent on a long list of Canadian products. Canada responded with counter tariffs.

Von der Leyen made her proposal on Wednesday in her State of the European Union speech this year and explained it as a close affinity. “We see the world through the same eyes,” she said. Europe and Canada shared a belief in democracy and not in power belonging to the strongest, richest or loudest. The aim is to bring the relationship with Canada to “the highest possible level”. Specifically, according to the EU Commission President, we could work more closely together, particularly in the areas of technology issues, defense equipment production, artificial intelligence and Arctic policy.

US President Donald Trump responded to von der Leyen's move with threats on Wednesday evening (local time): "I think it's ridiculous." If he sees the action as a “hostile act,” he would impose “very high tariffs” or stop trade with Europe in many areas, Trump warned reporters. However, the US President also said that the procedure was okay if the intention behind it was good - without explaining in more detail how he would base this on it.

Regular membership of Canada in the EU is not possible under the current treaties because, according to Article 49 of the EU Treaty, it is reserved for European states.