Photo: Virginia Mayo ~ AP
PODCAST
September 17, 2026 ~ Former Michigan Governor and U.S. Ambassador to Canada Jim Blanchard discusses a proposal that would make Canada an associate member of the European Union and what it could mean for trade, diplomacy, and North America.
STRASBOURG, France ~ As Canadian leaders meet with the European Union, the talks reflect Canada’s effort to expand economic opportunities and strengthen international partnerships. Prime Minister Mark Carney is pursuing closer ties with Europe, while Ursula von der Leyen has proposed a new form of partnership that could make Canada the EU’s first associate member.
For businesses and workers on both sides of the Atlantic, the discussions could influence future investment, trade and job growth. Leaders have said the partnership could expand cooperation in energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, manufacturing and defense, as Canada and the European Union explore ways to deepen their economic and security relationship.
