Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Strasbourg, France, on September 16, 2026, where he addressed the European Parliament. During his visit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined plans to strengthen ties between the EU and Canada. She expressed a desire for Canada to become the bloc’s first associate member, a move that would deepen cooperation in trade, security, and governance. Carney, who attended the meeting, listened as von der Leyen emphasized the importance of a “special relationship” between the two nations. The proposal comes amid broader discussions on expanding EU partnerships with non-member states. While the details of the associate membership remain under review, the visit marks a significant step in diplomatic efforts to align Canada more closely with European policies and initiatives.