Von der Leyen Proposes Canada Become EU's First Associate Member

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed Canada become the European Union's first associate member.

She unveiled this plan during her annual State of the Union speech to the European Parliament. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney was present in the chamber for the address. Von der Leyen stated she wanted to bring the relationship with Canada to the highest level possible. She added, "I would like to work with you on opening the door for Canada to be the first associate member of the EU."

EU diplomats expressed surprise, stating they were kept in the dark and learned of the proposal during the speech. They pointed out that associate membership does not currently exist as a category. One EU diplomat called the announcement bombastic and said no one has ever seen an associate membership and no idea what it means in practice.

Another diplomat expressed concerns that the European Commission chief is over-promising and won't be able to deliver. The proposal comes as US President Donald Trump's tariffs and talk of making Canada the 51st state drive Ottawa closer to Europe. Canada seeks to reduce its dependence on the United States, which is the destination for roughly 70% of its exports.

Prime Minister Carney has called for a unique alliance with the EU, but not full membership. Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada's ambassador-designate to the EU, said Ottawa had discussed associate membership with European officials before von der Leyen's speech. Wilkinson stated Canada is not seeking full EU membership because it would require surrendering some sovereignty. Von der Leyen said the EU and Canada see the world with the same eyes on issues from AI to climate change and geopolitics.

She proposed building on their existing free trade agreement, CETA, with a broader "Alliance for the Future" to create a common prosperity and economic security space. The EU has historically resisted flexible membership categories. EU members reacted lukewarmly to Germany's May proposal of associate membership for Ukraine. The proposal would need support from the EU's 27 member states. An EU-Canada summit is scheduled for late October to discuss the future relationship.