Signal Canada's Carney pursues 'unique alliance' with EU amid US trade war

Summary

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada is pursuing a 'unique alliance' with the European Union as its trade war with the United States deepens. Carney clarified Canada is not seeking EU membership but is beginning discussions on a 'unique security and economic alliance,' with potential elements including enhanced labour mobility, expanded education exchange, and deeper research cooperation. Canada-EU trade in goods and services reached 130.8 billion euros ($151 billion) last year, up more than 80% over the past decade. A survey conducted in early September by Canadian polling firm Abacus Data found about 80% of Canadians support deepening cooperation with the EU on foreign policy, defense, and economic priorities, a 6-point increase from when the question was last asked in February. Carney is expected to address the European Parliament on September 17 with a fuller vision of the partnership.