Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated in the European Parliament that Canada welcomes the prospect of becoming the EU’s first associate member, aiming to be a “beacon for democracies” rather than seeking to “dominate others”. He listed critical minerals, defense, AI, energy security, space, and payments as areas for deeper cooperation. US President Trump warned late on Wednesday that if the EU proceeds with the proposal, he would impose very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe on many things, calling the proposal “laughable”. The European Commission clarified that the proposed partnership is “not against anyone else, but for our common strength”.