Canada and the European Union are preparing to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital security, critical minerals and wildfire response as both sides seek to reduce their dependence on the United States. A draft joint statement obtained by The Canadian Press outlines several initiatives expected to be discussed at the upcoming Canada-EU summit in Montreal on October 29 and 30.
The document proposes allowing Canadian companies to compete for European cloud computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure contracts that are generally restricted to EU businesses. The initiative would give Canada associated-country status under the European Commission’s proposed Cloud and AI Development Act, potentially opening new opportunities for Canadian technology firms while strengthening digital independence on both sides of the Atlantic.
The draft agreement also outlines plans for Canada to participate in Europe’s Galileo satellite navigation system and facilitate European investment in Canadian critical minerals. Another major proposal involves the joint purchase of 50 Canadian-made De Havilland water bombers, which the document indicates could be operational by 2030 to support wildfire suppression efforts.
Described as an alliance focused on the future, the proposed partnership reflects efforts by Ottawa and Brussels to deepen cooperation in trade, defence, education and technology amid growing uncertainty surrounding relations with Washington. The initiative follows European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s recent proposal to make Canada the EU’s first associate member.
Patrick Leblond, an associate professor of public and international affairs at the University of Ottawa, warned that closer Canada-EU cooperation could face resistance from the United States, particularly if Washington views the partnership as an attempt to weaken American economic influence. He also highlighted the risks associated with Canada’s heavy reliance on major American technology companies, including Google, Amazon and Microsoft.
Meanwhile, Wendy Gilmour, vice-chair of the Conference of Defence Associations Institute, noted that European companies may increasingly favour Canadian partners because of restrictions associated with American exports. However, she cautioned that Canadian businesses accustomed to operating in the U.S. market could face challenges adapting to the European Union’s complex regulatory environment.
Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to host von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa and other European leaders at the Montreal summit. The discussions are expected to advance efforts to diversify Canada’s international partnerships, strengthen economic resilience and expand cooperation in strategically important industries.
The proposals remain part of a draft statement and have not yet been finalized.
