Ursula von der Leyen: Canada could become the first associate member of the European Union

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, announced the possibility of Canada joining as the first associate member of the European Union during her annual State of the Union address held at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. This proposal comes at a time when Canada’s economic and political relations with the United States are facing challenges.

Proposal for cooperation and diversification of trade relations

Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, has called for a "unique partnership" with the European Union as part of his government's efforts to diversify trade relations and reduce dependence on the U.S. market. He recently stated that Canada is seeking a special cooperation with the European Union, rather than full membership.

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Von der Leyen explained that this proposed partnership aims to create a "shared space for economic prosperity and security" based on the EU-Canada Free Trade Agreement (CETA). She also emphasized that this cooperation would go beyond trade and would be built on shared democratic values.

Changes in EU policy

Von der Leyen's remarks indicate significant changes in EU policies. This bloc has typically resisted flexible proposals in the past. In her speech, von der Leyen also noted that partnerships are seen as a strategic choice for Europe and a response to international challenges based on rules.

She highlighted the close cooperation between Europe and Canada, stating that both sides stand together on various issues including artificial intelligence, climate change, and supply chains, and emphasized that "most importantly, Europe and Canada believe in democracy".

Von der Leyen also referred to the energy crisis, stating that the EU must actively develop its green energy resources. She pointed out the problems arising from rising fossil fuel prices.

She also addressed issues related to the Middle East, stating that "the human suffering in Gaza and the violence of Israeli settlers in the West Bank have deeply affected Europeans." She deemed the Israeli cabinet's decision to advance illegal settlement projects in the West Bank as "unacceptable."

In this context, she urged EU member states to have a unified response to developments in the region and emphasized that increasing divisions in Europe hinder the change of course of events.

At the end of her speech, von der Leyen reiterated the importance of cooperation with Canada and invited Mark Carney to join the European Parliament for discussions on this matter.

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