EU and Canada move to deepen strategic ties at Montreal summit

During the 21st EU-Canada Summit in Montreal, held on October 30, 2026, both sides sought to strengthen their partnership amid rising global trade tensions and the threat of U.S. tariffs. While European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen initially proposed granting Canada the status of an "associated member" during her September address, the initiative faced significant resistance from several EU member states, including Germany, France, and Greece. These countries blocked the automatic adoption of the draft joint declaration, citing uncertainty regarding the legal definition and implications of such a status.

Despite these disagreements, the summit resulted in several concrete cooperation agreements. These include a pact on digital trade, enhanced cooperation between competition authorities, and a deal allowing the European Investment Bank to fund Canadian critical mineral projects. Furthermore, the parties announced a joint purchase of 50 De Havilland firefighting aircraft to be deployed by 2030, and the launch of negotiations for Canada’s participation in the Erasmus mobility program. Both sides also agreed to study the feasibility of expanding energy connectivity, specifically regarding potential liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to Europe. Prime Minister Mark Carney is leveraging these ties to reduce Canada's economic and security reliance on the United States.