Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney asserted that the United States will gain advantages from the diversification of Canada's trade alliances, even in the face of criticism from US President Donald Trump regarding proximity to the European Union (EU).
In Montreal, during a summit between Canada and the European Union taking place this Thursday and Friday, Carney told journalists that 'a stronger Canada is a better partner for everyone.' He added that to achieve this, it is necessary to diversify partnerships with trusted allies, ensuring that 'the United States will see the benefits' of this approach.
These statements come amid trade tensions between Ottawa and Washington, after Trump vehemently criticized the strengthening of ties between Canada and the European bloc. The two-day summit includes the participation of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council António Costa, aiming to deepen cooperation in commercial, economic, and defense areas between the two parties.
The meeting aims to solidify transatlantic ties at a time when Canada and the EU seek to reduce their economic and strategic dependence on the United States, given the change in American trade and foreign policy. Carney, who previously characterized Canada as 'the most European of non-European countries,' has advocated for an unprecedented closeness with community institutions.
This convergence with Brussels is part of the Canadian government's strategy to expand export markets and strengthen relations with partners considered safe, in a scenario of growing uncertainty in trade relations with Washington. The President of the European Council expressed his support for Ursula von der Leyen's proposal to grant Canada 'associated member' status with the EU, regardless of the terminology used.
In a speech delivered at the Montreal Council on International Relations, adjacent to the summit, António Costa emphasized that at this event, Brussels and Ottawa will establish 'an alliance for the future' and foster an 'ever closer association.'