Should Canada move economically closer to the European Union?

Poll: Move closer to Europe?

Castanet – Sep 14, 2026 / 7:15 pm | Story: 631261

Prime Minister Mark Carney, left to right, French President Emmanuel Macron, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Council Antonio Costa and British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer talk as they arrive at a meeting during the G20 in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Photo: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

Prime Minister Mark Carney is pursuing a new form of economic partnership with the European Union and both sides are talking about an agreement spanning multiple areas.

Here’s what we know.

A ‘unique’ arrangement with Europe

EU Ambassador to Canada Geneviève Tuts said last week that both sides are looking at crafting “something unique” that would build on an existing strategic partner agreement and a free trade deal.

Tuts said officials are identifying areas for further co-operation before talks take place to settle on a format for the deal. She said to expect discussions during Carney’s visit this week to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France.

Those discussions will be followed by the EU-Canada summit set for Oct. 29 and 30 in Canada, which will see Carney host European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa.

Media reports have described a sweeping, major partnership in the works. The Wall Street Journal suggested Carney was exploring whether Canada could become an “associate member” of the European Union. No such associate member status exists.

“We’re not looking to become a member of the European Union,” Carney told reporters Sunday.

He said Canada and the EU are seeking “a unique alliance” based on similar values and priorities, coupled with “very complementary strengths.”

Tags: