The European Commission opens the door to Canada becoming an associate member of the EU

The European Commission on Wednesday left open the possibility of Canada becoming the first "associate member" of the European Union (EU), while calling for a fundamental review of the bloc's partnership amid growing geopolitical and economic challenges.

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In her annual State of the Union 2026 speech to the European Parliament, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that Europe must “urgently redesign our partnerships”.

He also proposed working with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to bring relations between the EU and Canada “to the highest possible level.”

"I want to work with you to open up the opportunity for Canada to become the first associate member of the European Union," he said.

Von der Leyen made the proposal as part of a broader effort to deepen cooperation with like-minded partners in strategic areas, including energy, critical minerals, batteries, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, cybersecurity, and economic security.

The proposal would create a new form of relationship between the EU and non-EU countries, although von der Leyen did not specify what the scope of "associate member" status would be or what institutional arrangements would be required.

Von der Leyen said the EU must secure access to critical raw materials, strengthen its energy independence, and develop its own capabilities in emerging technologies, while continuing to work with trusted partners.

He stressed that Europe had chosen to pursue a more independent path, stating that a Europe was emerging that was stronger and better prepared to defend itself, secure its energy supplies and protect its economic interests.

Economy and energy

Von der Leyen set out Europe's economic recovery as the EU's "top priority," highlighting the bloc's large single market, industrial base, savings and currency, while acknowledging the continued fragmentation of capital markets, networks and purchasing power.

He stated that the EU had reached a political agreement on the "one Europe, one market" roadmap and called for the overhaul of the single market to be completed by the end of next year.

Von der Leyen also announced a new international connectivity initiative linking the South Caucasus and Central Asia with European markets through a route known as the Middle Corridor .

He also said that Europe cannot maintain its position as an industrial power if energy prices remain at structurally high levels.