European lawmakers are calling for a significant strengthening of ties between the EU and Canada, emphasizing security, trade, and multilateral cooperation as global geopolitical
pressures mount.
In a report adopted Wednesday, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) stressed that the EU must elevate its strategic partnership with Canada, citing shared values and mutual interests as essential for navigating today’s international challenges.
Tackling security threats together
MEPs urged full implementation of the EU-Canada security and defence partnership to address a range of threats, from Russia’s war in Ukraine and hybrid attacks to terrorism, foreign interference, and China’s growing global influence. The report highlights the importance of complementing NATO initiatives through programs such as Security Action for Europe (SAFE) and the Defence Readiness 2030 plan.
The lawmakers called for intensified support for Ukraine, including coordination through the G7 and the Coalition of the Willing, as well as joint diplomatic and sanctions efforts to further isolate Russia. They also advocate for stronger collaboration on challenges posed by China, including in the Western Balkans, and joint engagement in the Indo-Pacific and Middle East to promote lasting peace.
Defending multilateralism and promoting trade
Beyond security, MEPs underscored the importance of defending multilateral institutions such as the United Nations, the International Criminal Court, NATO, and the World Trade Organization. They highlighted the need for deeper cooperation in the Arctic, noting concerns over militarization and the strategic importance of Greenland’s autonomy.
On trade, the report calls for accelerated ratification of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) by the remaining EU member states ahead of its 10-year provisional anniversary in 2027. MEPs also urged stronger EU-Canada energy ties to ensure long-term strategic cooperation.
The resolution was adopted by 482 votes in favor, 108 against, and 42 abstentions, signaling broad support for closer EU-Canada collaboration amid a rapidly shifting global landscape.
Rapporteur Tobias Cremer (S&D, Germany) said: "Canada is perhaps the most European country outside Europe. And today, we can say it is more European than ever, because of our shared strategic interests and the common challenges we face. In a world shaped by a war-addicted Russia, an assertive China, and an increasingly erratic American ally, Europeans and Canadians know: we can only safeguard our interests and our security – in the Arctic, in Ukraine, when it comes to climate change and Greenland - by standing together and deepening our cooperation. It is high time for this close strategic alignment to be translated into a deeper Euro-Canadian alliance." Photo by Dati Bendo / European Union, Wikimedia commons.