EU considers Canada for associate membership after Strasbourg ovation

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau received a standing ovation from members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, on Wednesday, as European Union President Ursula von der Leyen floated the idea of granting Canada the bloc’s first “associate member” status. The applause followed von der Leyen’s remarks that the EU seeks to elevate its partnership with Canada to the highest possible level, signaling a potential shift in the transatlantic relationship.

In her address, von der Leyen outlined a vision for deeper collaboration across technology, defence and energy sectors, suggesting that an associate‑member arrangement would formalise and expand existing ties. The proposal, still under discussion, would make Canada the inaugural nation to hold such a status within the 27‑member union, marking a notable development in EU‑Canada relations.