EU and Canada deepen strategic ties with new security and defense partnership

THE HAGUE

Leaders from the European Union and Canada gathered Monday in Brussels for the EU-Canada Summit, marking a significant step forward in transatlantic cooperation with the signing of a comprehensive security and defense partnership agreement.

European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, underscoring a shared commitment to deepen strategic relations.

The newly signed EU-Canada Security and Defense Partnership was formalized by Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Defense Minister David J. McGuinty alongside EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.

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

He emphasized the pact’s role in strengthening transatlantic security, enhancing industrial cooperation and preparing both sides for emerging defense needs.

"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 called the partnership "a huge step forward," noting that Canada would soon begin talks on joining SAFE, the EU's joint military procurement initiative.

She also announced the launch of an EU-Canada Industrial Policy Dialogue to boost supply chains in key sectors like clean technologies.

"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 security and defense partnership, saying it would enable both sides to strengthen defense capabilities, accelerate joint procurement efforts and increase industrial resilience. He also expressed Canada's strong interest in participating in SAFE.