Canada

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/52558022

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/52558017

_ From critical raw materials to fighting wildfires, a document obtained by POLITICO reveals a wide-ranging expansion in relations._

EXCLUSIVE - BRUSSELS — The EU and Canada will use a landmark summit next month to announce an expansive new partnership, ranging from breaking down digital trade barriers to joint support for Ukraine and investing in fighting wildfires.

"The world is rapidly changing with unprecedented geopolitical challenges as well as challenges across trade, energy, technology, climate, and resources," reads a draft joint statement to be issued by the two sides, circulated to EU ambassadors in preparation for the planned summit that begins on Oct. 29, and obtained by POLITICO.

The EU and Canada have been seeking to shore up their strategic ties as they grapple with the fallout from U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen this month proposed inviting Canada to become an associate member of the EU, triggering an immediate threat by Trump to impose tariffs.

"Canada and the EU, with our unparalleled trade access, shared values, and complementary economic strengths, can build a deeper and more integrated relationship," the draft paper says.

The two sides plan to say at their summit in Montreal that they want to speed up investment in critical mineral projects, strengthen supply chains, and improve supply security, including by stockpiling critical resources to mitigate “market fluctuations and geopolitical impacts.”