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September 17, 2026

Carney calls for E.U.-Canada pact live: Canada backs EU proposal for associated membership

World Live coverage ended 2 updates Concluded 20:34
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What we know

Last verified 14:32
  • Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed support for the European Union's proposal on associated membership during his address to the European Parliament.
  • Carney highlighted several sectors where Canada aims to enhance cooperation with the EU.
  • He emphasized Canada's intention to independently determine its international partnerships amid escalating trade tensions.
  • Carney called for a formal trade agreement between the EU and Canada, describing the current economic environment as a 'ferocious storm.'
  • Specific details on the scope of the proposed association between Canada and the EU have not been clarified.

Live updates

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Carney Urges EU-Canada Trade Pact Amid Tensions with Trump

Mark Carney has called for a formal trade agreement between the European Union and Canada, describing the current economic environment as a 'ferocious storm.' This comes amid U.S. President Donald Trump's dismissal of the EU's proposal to grant Canada associate membership, which he labeled 'laughable' and accompanied by threats of imposing 'very heavy tariffs' on Europe. Carney emphasized that Canada will independently determine its international partnerships despite the escalating trade tensions.

Canada Supports EU's Proposal for Associated Membership

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed support for the European Union's proposal on associated membership during his address to the European Parliament. He outlined several sectors where Canada aims to enhance cooperation with the EU, signaling a commitment to deepen bilateral ties.

Carney's remarks underscore Canada's interest in closer integration with the EU framework, though specific details on the scope of the proposed association remain to be clarified.

What we’ll be tracking

EU-Canada Trade Negotiations Near term

Why it matters

Trade Relations

Mark Carney's call for a formal EU-Canada trade pact highlights efforts to strengthen economic ties amid rising global trade tensions.

Geopolitical Tensions

U.S. President Trump's rejection of the EU's proposal and threats of heavy tariffs underscore the strained transatlantic trade environment.

Sovereign Decision-Making

Canada's stance to independently determine its international partnerships signals its intent to navigate trade relations on its own terms.