EU's von der Leyen wants Canada to become bloc's first associate member — Live Feedhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/eu-s-von-der-leyen-wants-canada-to-become-bloc-s-first-associate-memberContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. EU Commission President proposes Canada as first associate memberhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/eu-s-von-der-leyen-wants-canada-to-become-bloc-s-first-associate-memberhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/eu-s-von-der-leyen-wants-canada-to-become-bloc-s-first-associate-member#u73407Thu, 17 Sep 2026 21:25:36 +0000European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed that Canada become the first associate member of the European Union. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has embraced the proposal and visited Europe to seek closer ties. The move comes as Canada faces a worsening trade war with the United States under Donald Trump, prompting Canada to seek alternative strategic partnerships. This unprecedented status would establish a new category of membership for the bloc to integrate non-European partners.Why it mattersThe proposal emerges during a period of trade instability between Canada an