September 14, 2026
Carney live: Urges EU to strengthen trade deal as Canada shifts focus from US
What we know
- Mark Carney has called on the European Union to finalize a trade agreement with Canada to strengthen economic ties.
- Canada aims to diversify its economic partnerships beyond the United States by forming a unique alliance with the EU.
- The proposed alliance would grant Canada a status similar to an associate member, without full EU membership.
- The initiative has sparked debate within the EU, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reportedly not attending Carney's address to the European Parliament.
Live updates
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Mark Carney Advocates for Closer Canada-EU Trade Partnership
Former Bank of England Governor Mark Carney has called on the European Union to finalize a trade agreement with Canada, as Ottawa seeks to diversify its economic ties beyond the United States. Carney proposes a unique alliance that would position Canada as an 'associate member' of the EU, aiming to strengthen transatlantic cooperation.
The initiative has sparked debate within EU institutions, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reportedly opting not to attend Carney's speech at the European Parliament. Analysts suggest that such a partnership could reshape Canada's trade strategy and deepen economic integration with Europe.
Mark Carney Calls for Closer Canada-EU Trade Ties Amid US Pivot
Mark Carney has urged the European Union to finalize a trade agreement with Canada as Ottawa aims to diversify its economic partnerships beyond the United States. Carney described Canada's goal as forming a "unique alliance" with the EU, stopping short of full membership but seeking a status akin to an "associate member."
This initiative reflects Canada's strategic pivot towards Europe, emphasizing deeper integration without formal EU statehood. The proposal has sparked debate within EU circles, with some officials, including Ursula von der Leyen, reportedly opting not to attend Carney's address to the European Parliament.
What we’ll be tracking
Why it matters
Canada is seeking to reduce its economic dependence on the United States by pursuing closer trade ties with the European Union.
Mark Carney's proposal for Canada to become an 'associate member' of the EU represents a novel approach to transatlantic economic cooperation without full EU membership.
The initiative has generated debate within EU institutions, highlighted by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's reported decision to skip Carney's speech, indicating mixed reception among EU officials.