European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen advocated for a novel partnership category to bring Ottawa closer to the 27-nation bloc during her annual state of the union speech. The proposal calls for Canada to become the European Union's first associate member to facilitate deeper cooperation in artificial intelligence, defense, and energy while creating an economic security space. This specific membership status does not currently exist under EU treaties and would require a new legal basis to be established for the relationship.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is visiting Europe to secure stronger ties following the collapse of trade talks with the US and increasing tariffs from Donald Trump. Discussions between officials in France and Canada have included the prospect of allowing Canadians to live and work in Europe visa-free. While Von der Leyen supports the move, some EU diplomats have expressed wariness regarding giving Canada preferential trade access.