Canada invited to become first associate member of European Union

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney landed in Strasbourg, France Wednesday morning for the investment summit to hear some good news.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen says Europe wants to open the door for Canada to become an associate member of the European Union.

They posted on X early Wednesday morning saying that the union wants to create a common prosperity and economic security space.

Dear @MarkJCarney we want to bring the relationship with Canada to the highest level possible.

I would like to work with you on opening the door for Canada to being the first associate member of the EU.

And create a common prosperity and economic security space. pic.twitter.com/GqIjGBz6aY

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) September 16, 2026

Carney is overseas looking to secure deeper ties with Europe and has been invited to address the European Parliament Thursday.

He will then make a quick flight to Manchester, England to meet with new British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and attend a soccer match in Liverpool.

WATCH MORE: Economist says Carney’s summit signals Canada is open to investment