EU chief wants Canada to become the bloc’s first associate member

EUROPEAN Commission President Ursula von der Leyen today proposed opening a path for Canada to become the European Union’s first associate member.

Tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump have driven Ottawa closer to Europe.

“I would like to work with you on opening the door for Canada being the first associate member of the EU,” Ms von der Leyen told Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during her annual State of the European Union address.

Mr Carney received a standing ovation from European lawmakers. He is due to address the European Parliament tomorrow.