Mark Carney says Canada will collaborate with EU on "the full range of strategic capabilities"

Prime Minister Mark Carney in a Strasbourg speech welcomed European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen's suggestion that Canada become the bloc's first associate member, and he sought closer work in areas including artificial intelligence, computing, space, payments, defense and energy. The visit aimed to build momentum before a summit between the EU and Canada in Montreal next month, as Canada is locked in a trade conflict with Washington and relations between the EU and the United States are tense. President Donald Trump dismissed the idea and warned he could impose heavy tariffs or stop trading with the EU if it moved ahead. Carney rejected the idea that another country could control Canada's culture or decide which international agreements it signs. The status remains undefined, with EU treaties not allowing for it and member governments needing to approve any arrangement.