Carney welcomes EU’s aim to strengthen strategic alliance with Canada

Addressing the European Parliament, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said that closer ties between Canada and the European Union could become an inspiring model for democracies around the world.

Carney said that today’s challenges and geopolitical divisions make it necessary to find new forms of cooperation between countries. He particularly emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties, including creating opportunities for young people to study, live and work freely on both sides of the Atlantic.

The remarks follow a proposal by EU leaders to create a framework that would allow Canada to build an even closer partnership with the European bloc. The Canadian prime minister welcomed this approach at a time when his country is seeking to diversify its trade and forge new strategic alliances.

The initiative comes amid trade tensions and steep tariffs imposed by the United States administration and President Donald Trump. They have warned that they will retaliate if plans for closer integration between Canada and Europe move forward. The specific steps and details of the alliance are expected to be discussed at the next summit, which will be held in Montreal at the end of October.

There was also an unexpected incident during the speech in Brussels. Carney was interrupted by someone in the chamber who sarcastically shouted the slogan, “USA, USA!” The interruption drew expressions of disapproval from the rest of those present, while the prime minister then continued his speech, focusing on strengthening Canada’s international role.