EU eyes associate ties with Australia, New Zealand after Canada proposal

In an interview ahead of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s speech to the European Parliament, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola outlined a concept of “associate membership” for like-minded nations. She indicated that Australia and New Zealand could follow Canada in applying for this intermediate relationship, which would build on existing trade agreements and focus on critical raw materials, regulatory convergence and shared values.

Metsola noted that discussions are at an early stage and that the EU would treat each partnership separately. The idea was first mentioned by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her State of the Union address. While U.S. President Donald Trump warned of possible new tariffs if the plan becomes contentious, the EU reiterated that the initiative is about rules-based cooperation, not opposition to any partner. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to address the Parliament later this week.