STRASBOURG — Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada welcomes the ambition to become the European Union’s first associate member, though what exactly that would entail still needs to be defined. Carney is addressing the European Parliament today and, in prepared remarks, says Canada and Europe should have deeper ties on critical minerals, defence, artificial intelligence and energy security. He says the two should move forward in allowing youth to live, work and study on either side of the Atlantic Ocean, and create an integrated market for financial services. His remarks come one day after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she wants Canada to become the first associate member of the European Union. Canadian officials have stressed that such a label is but one of a few options for naming a new alliance between Canada and the EU. Canadian and European officials have suggested that more details of the associate membership proposal — and maybe even some type of agreement — could emerge next month from the Canada-EU Summit in Montreal. This is a developing news story. Check back for updates. Nick Murray, The Canadian Press
