How EU leaders are reacting to Canada associate membership proposal

Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed the “ambition” of European Council President Ursula von der Leyen’s proposal to invite Canada to be the European Union’s first ever “associate member,” and he wasn’t the only one reacting. Leaders, heads of state and officials from across the EU are continuing to react to the proposal for closer ties with Canada.Spanish President Pedro Sanchez posted the EU flag – 12 golden stars on a field of blue – on his social media account on Thursday, with one notable addition. The flag had a bright red Canadian maple leaf on the left-hand side.European Parliament President Roberta Metsola welcomed Canada’s “leadership” in helping build “the next chapter” in the relationship.“The world is changing. Side by side, we can build what comes next,” Metsola said, calling Canada and the EU “allies and friends.” Story continues below advertisement Aside from critical minerals, energy and defence equipment, one of Canada’s most famous exports was also brough up on the floor of the European Parliament on Wednesday – the TV show Heated Rivalry.“You have green hydrogen to keep us warm, you have maple syrup to keep us happy and Heated Rivalry to keep us entertained,” Ger...