European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced her ambition for Canada to become an associate member of the European Union during a joint press conference in Brussels. The proposal, part of a broader strategy to deepen trans‑Atlantic cooperation, would grant Canada access to certain EU programs, research funding, and trade facilitation mechanisms without full membership rights. Von der Leyen highlighted shared values on climate action, digital innovation, and human rights as the foundation for the partnership. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded positively, stating that his government would study the proposal and engage with EU officials to explore the legal and economic implications of an associate membership.
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