Strasbourg: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is in Strasbourg as Ottawa seeks to deepen economic and security cooperation with the European Union amid growing uncertainty in Canada’s relationship with the United States.

Carney’s visit includes meetings with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola. He is also scheduled to participate in the European Parliament’s debate surrounding the European Union’s annual State of the Union address.

The Canadian government has placed stronger relations with European countries at the center of its strategy to diversify international trade and investment. Ottawa is particularly interested in cooperation involving energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, defense and other strategic industries.

During a Canada Investment Summit in Toronto on September 15, Carney said Canada was seeking to attract significant new investment while strengthening relationships with trusted international partners.

The Canadian government has also highlighted its participation in the European Union’s Security Action for Europe defense procurement initiative. Ottawa sees closer cooperation with Europe as a way to expand economic opportunities while strengthening strategic partnerships.

Carney has described the proposed relationship with Europe as a potential unique security and economic alliance rather than Canadian membership in the European Union.

Trade diversification has become increasingly important for Canada as tensions with the United States have affected the economic relationship between the two neighboring countries. The United States remains Canada’s largest trading partner, but Ottawa is seeking to increase commercial links with other major markets.

European officials have also shown interest in expanding cooperation with Canada in areas including clean energy, critical raw materials, technology and defense.

The Strasbourg meetings are expected to provide an opportunity for both sides to discuss how existing agreements can be expanded and how new areas of cooperation can be developed.

Carney’s European trip also includes a visit to the United Kingdom, where he is scheduled to meet British Prime Minister Andy Burnham in Liverpool.

The Canadian government’s latest diplomatic push represents a broader effort to strengthen international partnerships while reducing excessive dependence on any single market.