Canada and the European Union are preparing to deepen economic and security ties at a summit in Montreal on October 29–30, as both seek to reduce their dependence on the United States. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will host European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa for talks covering trade, energy, technology and defense. The discussions follow von der Leyen's proposal to offer Canada an unprecedented form of EU 'associate membership', potentially giving Ottawa closer access to European programs without joining the bloc. However, several EU governments, including Germany and France, have questioned the proposal's legal implications. The initiative builds on an existing trade agreement and earlier plans to strengthen cooperation on critical minerals, energy and support for Ukraine. Leaders are expected to launch an “Alliance for the Future,” with further negotiations over the coming year intended to define its scope.
