Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has reiterated his opposition to Canada becoming an associate member of the European Union, stating that Canada will never be the EU's '28th state.' The remarks come amid ongoing discussions about deepening Canada-EU relations.
Poilievre's comments reflect his longstanding position against closer institutional ties with the EU. He has previously argued that such a move could compromise Canadian sovereignty.
The concept of associate membership for Canada has been floated in European policy circles as a way to strengthen economic and political cooperation without full EU accession. However, no formal proposal has been made by the Canadian government.
Poilievre's statement underscores the political divide on the issue, with supporters of deeper integration arguing it would benefit trade and geopolitical alignment, while opponents like Poilievre insist it would undermine Canada's independence.
