# EU and Canada seek closer ties: Could Canada become the bloc’s first associate member?

https://mins.news/en/item/103036

- France 24, 2026-10-16 12:04 UTC
- Politics
- Original: https://www.france24.com/en/tv-shows/talking-europe/20261016-eu-and-canada-seek-closer-ties-will-canada-become-the-eu-s-first-associate-member

> With the international environment becoming more challenging, the EU is seeking stronger ties with like-minded allies, including Canada. In her September State of the Union speech, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Canada could become an associate member, a status the EU does not currently offer its partners.

## Related coverage

- [EU and Canada seek closer ties: Could Canada become the bloc’s first associate member?](https://mins.news/en/video/103052) — France 24 English, 2026-10-16