Canada-EU Defense Pact: Strengthening Ties Amid Global Uncertainty and Shifting Alliances
Canada and the EU have formalized a comprehensive security and defense partnership, as announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels. This agreement, which includes support for Ukraine and collaboration on issues ranging from climate change to AI, allows Canada to participate in the EU’s €150bn defense fund. The pact, mirroring one signed with the UK, signifies a deepening of transatlantic alliances, possibly influenced by global instability and former US President Donald Trump’s stance on allies. This partnership opens doors for joint procurement and enhanced defense capabilities for Canada, despite its current defense spending falling short of NATO’s 2% GDP target.