EU chief opens door for Canada to become 'associate member'

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has backed proposals for Canada to become the EU's first "associate member," offering closer ties on key sectors including AI, defense, and energy. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who is seeking a "unique alliance" with the EU, is attending the European Parliament this week as Canada faces deteriorating trade relations with the United States, including disputed tariffs and Trump's references to making Canada the "51st state."