Source: European Commission
The recent EU-Canada Summit, held on November 23 and 24, highlighted the unwavering alignment and shared values between the European Union and Canada in the face of pressing global challenges. Hosted by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in St John’s, Newfoundland, the summit brought together European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel to discuss and solidify their strategic partnership.
The summit conducted to the announcement of ambitious bilateral agreements that further strengthen the EU-Canada partnership. Canada is set to become an associated country to Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation program. This association will enable Canadian researchers to participate in the program, fostering collaboration on clean technologies, biotech, and digital projects.
The EU-Canada Green Alliance, a comprehensive bilateral engagement under the European Green Deal, was also established. This alliance aims to enhance cooperation on climate, energy, environment, oceans, sustainable mobility, and more. Additionally, the EU committed to joining the Global Carbon Pricing Challenge initiated by Prime Minister Trudeau at COP26, with the goal of increasing carbon pricing coverage to 60% by 2030.
A significant aspect of the summit was the European Commission – Canada Hydrogen Action Plan, promoting the development of the hydrogen market between the EU and Canada as a clean technology contributing to the green transition. The leaders also introduced the EU-Canada Digital Partnership, focusing on AI cooperation, cybersecurity, online platforms, digital identity, and skills.
The agreement on Passenger Name Record (PNR) was welcomed as a crucial step in facilitating the fight against terrorism and organized crime while respecting privacy and data protection standards.
Reflecting on their trade relationship, the leaders acknowledged the positive impact of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) over the last six years. CETA has significantly increased trade in goods, reaching €77 billion and benefiting both European and Canadian businesses and citizens.
President von der Leyen underscored the potential for further collaboration in the field of critical raw materials, extending an invitation for Canada to join the Critical Raw Materials Club. Emphasizing Canada’s role as a key supplier for lithium batteries and the EU being Canada’s second-largest export market, she highlighted the mutually beneficial nature of the partnership. In conclusion, the EU-Canada Summit not only reaffirmed the strong alignment and shared values between the two entities but also paved the way for enhanced cooperation in various strategic areas, setting the stage for a more resilient and sustainable future.
