https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/von-der-leyen-eyes-canada-as-eu-s-first-associate-memberContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/von-der-leyen-eyes-canada-as-eu-s-first-associate-memberhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/von-der-leyen-eyes-canada-as-eu-s-first-associate-member#u75441Sat, 19 Sep 2026 00:15:09 +0000European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed making Canada the first associate member of the European Union. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed the proposal on Thursday, stating that Canada and the EU are not fair weather allies. The move seeks a middle powers alliance to align on trade and security while countering threats from US President Donald Trump, who has threatened tariffs against Canada. While the proposal signals closer political ties, the legal status of associate membership does not currently exist within the EU framework.Why it mattersThe initiative f