The EU and Canada enjoy a vibrant strategic partnership built on effective multilateralism, a progressive international policy agenda and inclusive trade. New political opportunities under the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) and new trade opportunities under the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) have brought Canada and the EU closer than ever, a close friendship and a reliable partnership further enhanced by the current geopolitical environment. The 17th Canada-European Union Summit, which took place between 17 and 18 July 2019 in Montreal, offered a great opportunity to highlight the success of EU-Canada relations. Read Joint Declaration here.
Strengthening strategic cooperation
The framework for the EU-Canada relationship is set out in the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA), an update of the 1976 Framework Agreement for Commercial and Economic Cooperation.The SPA reflects more recent global developments, advancing Canada-EU foreign policy goals while providing a platform for joint international action. It reinforces cooperation in strategic areas such as:
- international peace and security
- human rights
- environmental protection
- research
- innovation
- energy security
- education.
Working together on these issues of shared interest and responsibility, the EU holds regular consultations with Canada, including Summits between the Canadian Prime Minister and the Presidents of the European Council and the European Commission, ministerial consultations and dialogues of the Political Directors. Additionally, there are ongoing specific consultations on regional and global issues ranging from energy, environment and climate change to non-proliferation, defence and security matters.
Canada also participates in the EU’s civilian missions and military operations under the Common Security and Defence Policy, for example in the Balkans, Ukraine and the Middle East. Additionally, Canada and the EU join forces on electoral observation missions.