Kathmandu. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has taken initiatives to expand trade, defense and economic cooperation with the European Union (EU) amid the trade policy of US President Donald Trump. However, some member states, including France and Germany, have expressed dissatisfaction with the proposal to make Canada an ‘associate member’ of the EU.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa are participating in the summit held in Montreal. The conference proposes to increase cooperation in trade, defense, technology, research and important minerals. Carney said that more important than the name of the partnership are the opportunities that citizens, businessmen and researchers will get from it.
Trump has warned that the proposed relationship could be considered a “hostile act” and that tariffs could be imposed on Europe if necessary. Canadian officials have said that cooperation with the EU is based on common interests, not against the US.
Canada is reviewing its plan to purchase 72 more American F-35 fighter jets and is considering Sweden’s Saab Gripen as an alternative. In 2025, 71.7 percent of Canada’s total exports went to the United States. Prime Minister Carney has set a goal of doubling exports to other countries in the next decade.
Canada and the EU are also discussing digital trade and increasing investment in important minerals. The proposed partnership is expected to help reduce dependence on the US economy and security. RSS/AFP