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Australia and New Zealand could follow Canada into associated EU membership

3 hours ago
  • European Parliament President Roberta Metsola proposes 'associate membership' for Canada as a third way between full EU membership and candidate status.
  • Other like-minded countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, could follow Canada in seeking closer ties with the EU.
  • The proposal aims to strengthen cooperation on trade, critical raw materials, and common regulations on issues like social media and protection of minors.
  • Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is exploring closer ties with the EU amid a trade war with the US, seeking alliances of 'middle powers'.
  • US President Donald Trump threatened tariffs if the associate membership bid turns hostile, but EU officials maintain the partnership is not against anyone.