Canada seeks closer EU ties to reduce dependence on US, says PM Carney

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney discussed Canada's efforts to reduce its economic dependence on the United States in an interview with DW English. He emphasized the need for Canada to build domestic strength and diversify international partnerships beyond the Americas.

Carney spoke after meetings in Montreal with European Union leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa. The talks focused on establishing a closer partnership between Canada and the EU.

A key topic was the proposal by von der Leyen to create an "associate membership" status for Canada within the EU, a concept that does not currently exist for any other country. Carney expressed support for this new term despite some pushback from Germany.

Carney highlighted that in many cases, there could be scope for deeper cooperation between Canada and the EU than between Canada and the US. This reflects Canada's strategic goal to diversify and deepen partnerships with like-minded countries internationally.