Von der Leyen Says Canada Could Become EU's First 'Associate Member'

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the European Union wants to "move the partnership with Canada to the highest level possible," suggesting Canada could become the bloc's first associate member, according to remarks reported by The Guardian.

The proposal was part of a broader address in which von der Leyen outlined priorities for the EU, including economic reform and defending European democracies against external interference.

Von der Leyen said "kickstarting Europe's economy is our number one priority," arguing that the continent must better tap into its large internal market, world-class industries and services sector. She said the EU's single market remains "too fragmented" and requires further reform, setting a goal of completing it by the end of next year.

In her address, von der Leyen also framed a choice facing European nations, asking whether they want to "rally around our European idea that together we can decide our own destiny" or allow democracies to be "undermined by the proxies and puppets of authoritarians." She said threats including ultra-nationalism, anti-European sentiment, and Russian interference or disinformation, while distinct in name, share the same underlying goal.

Details on the specific structure or terms of a potential Canada associate membership were not immediately outlined in the remarks reported.