Majority of Canadians support closer formal ties with European Union, poll finds

The Globe and Mail reports that nearly eight in 10 respondents were supportive or somewhat supportive of Canada becoming an associate member of the EU[1], as long as the deal increased co-operation on trade and defence without full membership.According to Nanos, four in five Canadians want Canada to pursue much closer ties (60%) or somewhat closer ties (23%) with the EU[2]. Nanos says it surveyed 1,057 Canadians, 18 years of age or older, from September 27 to 29, 2026[2].The Globe reports that the idea for associate membership was raised by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen[1] in mid-September. Ghanaian News Canada reports that US President Donald Trump warned that a move by Canada towards associate membership of the EU could be viewed as a hostile act[3]. Heubner told the paper they are "a sign of ongoing deeper frustration with our neighbour in the south"[1].Nik Nanos told The Globe: "My sense is that Canadians do not want to give up sovereignty to diversify the economy."[1]Nanos also reports that half of Canadians (50%) say the Prime Minister should hold a vote in Parliament first[2] before signing a new EU agreement.The Canadian Press reports that more details on the plan are expected at the Canada-EU summit in Montreal next month.[4]