Canada pivots to Europe amid low US-Canada relations

Canada: Canada is a North American country with Ottawa as its capital that has longstanding economic and security ties to both the United States and European partners. Amid recent tensions in its relationship with the US, the country is actively pursuing deeper cooperation with the European Union to strengthen strategic autonomy. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has engaged directly with EU leaders on this pivot during visits to Europe in September 2026. Julia Payne: Julia Payne is an EU correspondent for Reuters based in Brussels, where she covers topics including energy, economy, transport, and health. She reported on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's recent proposal for Canada to become the bloc's first associate member during the State of the Union address. Payne's dispatches highlight the mutual interest between Canada and Europe in closer collaboration. Diplomacy: The European Commission President has proposed opening the door for Canada to become the EU's first associate member as part of efforts to build new partnerships among like-minded allies. Trade Relations: Canada is seeking a unique economic and security alliance with the European Union to diversify its international partnerships.