Canada seeks closer EU partnership to reduce US dependence, Carney says
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Friday that Canada is too dependent on the United States and must deepen ties with the European Union, following talks in Montreal with EU leaders on a new, closer partnership. Speaking to DW after the meeting, Carney said Canadians have learned they are “overdependent on the United States. Too closely connected to the United States.” He stressed the need to build strength at home and diversify partnerships with like-minded countries.
The EU delegation was led by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, who met Carney and Canadian officials in Montreal. The discussions covered von der Leyen’s plan for an “associate membership” status for Canada, a label that does not yet exist for any other country. Carney appeared to favor the concept, describing it as “the closest possible partnership without being a full member of the European Union, because Canada is not in Europe geographically and therefore cannot have accession.” However, the government of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has resisted creating the label.
Diversifying partnerships, not excluding the US
Asked about the possibility of a new transatlantic bloc without the United States, Carney said the aim is diversifying and deepening partnerships, not excluding the US. He noted that both Canada and the EU are US partners and NATO allies, with many opportunities for cooperation. In many cases, he said, Canada’s cooperation with Europe can be deeper than with the US. Carney cited the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) as “one of the most successful free trade agreements in the world,” along with research cooperation through Horizon Europe and Erasmus+ student exchanges.
Carney identified space technologies, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals as areas to expand cooperation. He acknowledged that the scale of the relationship with the United States would be “very hard to replace,” but said tensions with the Trump administration show the need to seek Canada’s other natural partners. On dealing with US President Donald Trump, Carney said it is important to be direct, clear about bottom lines, show respect, and bring negotiations back to core issues.
Positive partnership to solve global problems
Carney said the talks with Brussels concern a “positive association” and a partnership “to help solve global problems.” He stressed that the initiative is “not against somebody. It’s for. It’s a positive act.” Regarding possible US tariffs or punitive measures over the EU talks, Carney said, “We’ve been living with this for some time.” He maintained that all US justifications for trade action against Canada are “unjustified under our trade agreement.” The bonds between Canadians and Americans remain strong, he said, and big elements will be maintained regardless of governments.
