Montreal:Canada and the European Union are seeking to enhance their bilateral relations, aiming for what Prime Minister Mark Carney describes as the "deepest possible partnership, short of accession." This effort comes amid increasing global uncertainty.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Carney spoke at a Canada-EU summit in Montreal alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa. He emphasized that closer ties would open up economic opportunities, bolster security, and decrease reliance on other global powers.

During the summit, the Canada-EU Alliance for the Future was launched, focusing on areas such as trade, energy, critical minerals, technology, and security. A joint statement from the summit highlighted an agreement to strengthen supply chains and create new opportunities for businesses and workers.

The statement also detailed the completion of negotiations on digital trade and competition agreements. It mentioned plans to explore investments in Canada's critical minerals sector and called for a feasibility study on the long-term export of Canadian LNG to Europe to enhance energy security.

Carney pointed out the advantages for Canadians, including improved access to European markets and increased opportunities for students and researchers through EU programs. The goal is to define the terms of this closer partnership by the 2027 summit, with ongoing discussions in the upcoming months.

Amid rising global tensions and trade uncertainties, Carney stated that stronger Canada-EU ties would enable both regions to leverage each other's strengths and gain greater control over their economic destinies.