UK should 'team up' with Canada in new Europe alliance, Canadian minister tells BBC

Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne has suggested the UK should join a proposed economic alliance between Canada and Europe. This proposal follows European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's suggestion to allow Canada associate membership in the EU. Champagne stated that the world has changed, necessitating new alliances, and highlighted shared values between Canada and the UK as a basis for partnership. He also commented on Canada's response to a recent trade dispute with the US, emphasizing the country's defense of its industries. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit to address the EU was framed as an effort to build this future alliance.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, a French territory off Canada's coast, to announce closer bilateral ties. The leaders aim to address shared concerns including geopolitical tensions, climate change, and democratic erosion. This meeting occurred shortly after a social media post by Donald Trump that depicted Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, along with Canada and other North American regions, under a US flag. Canada is seeking stronger relations with the EU amidst its trade dispute with the US. Macron and Carney agreed to enhance cooperation in areas such as space, climate, and energy, with a particular focus on potential Canadian liquefied natural gas exports to Europe. They also discussed Canada's potential associate membership in the EU, a proposal France supports.