Canada Could Join European Union as Geopolitical Ties Shift, French Foreign Minister Suggests

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has suggested that Canada could one day join the European Union.

Speaking at the Europe 2026 conference in Berlin, Barrot addressed the expanding scope of the bloc as geopolitical tensions continue to rise globally, according to Politico on March 17.

Barrot noted that nine countries are currently official candidates for EU membership, but indicated that others could follow. “Iceland in a few weeks or months. And, maybe, Canada at some point,” Barrot said.

The remarks were presented as part of a broader discussion on the EU’s role as a “third superpower.” This position is intended to balance the global influence of the United States and China. Barrot referred to the transatlantic ally as a “bright example of the block’s global appeal.”

The possibility of Canadian membership has been noted by other European leaders as well. Finnish President Alexander Stubb recently told Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during a joint meeting that he should also “think” about the idea of joining the EU.

Discussions regarding Canada’s relationship with Europe have become more frequent due to strained ties with the US administration.

President Donald Trump has previously made comments regarding Canada’s status, including references to it becoming a “51st state.”

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While analysts previously described Canada joining the EU as unlikely, the idea is being discussed in the context of shifting diplomatic priorities.

Amid trade pressures and unpredictable policy changes in Washington, some in Canada are looking toward more stable partnerships with European allies.

In February 2026, Canada formally became the first non-European country to join the European Union’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense procurement program.

During the Munich Security Conference, Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty announced the agreement, which linked Canada to the bloc’s $162 billion effort to accelerate joint defense production.

Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed the entry, noting that the partnership allowed Canadian firms to bid on projects alongside European companies.

Ukraine had successfully implemented 84% of the reforms required under the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement. Despite the challenges posed by Russia’s full-scale invasion, the country increased its alignment with European standards from 81% in 2024.

Significant progress was recorded in the financial sector, customs, and social policy, with some areas like statistics and information exchange reaching full implementation.

While Ukraine aimed to open all negotiation clusters for accession, the process faced hurdles as Hungary continued to block the “Fundamentals” chapter, which is essential for advancing formal talks.

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