EU, Canada Forge Security, Defense Partnership

(MENAFN) Leaders from the European Union and Canada convened Monday for the EU-Canada Summit, solidifying a major advancement in transatlantic collaboration with the signing of a far-reaching security and defense partnership.

European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hosted Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, highlighting their mutual goal to deepen strategic alliances.

The newly finalized EU-Canada Security and Defense Partnership was officially signed by Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Defense Minister David J. McGuinty, alongside the EU’s foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas.

"This summit is much more than a symbolic milestone. It is a powerful political statement," said Costa at a joint press conference.

He stressed that the agreement would reinforce transatlantic security, promote joint industrial efforts, and better equip both parties for evolving defense challenges.

"We will take our strategic relationship to an unprecedented level of closeness. That is why today's summit marks a turning point in our history," he added.

Von der Leyen hailed the deal as "a huge step forward," and revealed that Canada is preparing to enter discussions to join SAFE, the EU’s collaborative military procurement program.
She also introduced a new EU-Canada Industrial Policy Dialogue aimed at strengthening critical supply chains, particularly in sectors like clean technology.

"Our EU-Canada strategic partnership for the future will build a new and deeper relationship that brings us closer together," Carney said.

Carney welcomed the signing of the pact, describing it as a tool to boost both sides’ defense strength, streamline cooperative procurement processes, and enhance industrial resilience. He reaffirmed Canada’s keen interest in becoming a SAFE participant.

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