EU says it is flattered by poll results, but calls on Canada to fight Trump tariffs hand in hand.
Brussels reacted warmly to the results of a poll showing interest among Canadians in joining the European Union — before clarifying that the idea is a nonstarter.
The survey, conducted by Abacus Data in late February, found that 44 percent of Canadian respondents believe their country should join the EU, while only 34 percent oppose the idea. A broader question on general support for joining the bloc drew 46 percent approval.
Those sentiments drew bemused appreciation from Brussels.
“We are honored with the results of such a poll. It shows the attractiveness of the European Union, and it shows the appreciation of a very large share of Canadian citizens for the EU and its values,” said Paula Pinho, spokesperson for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, at the Commission’s Wednesday briefing, before adding that she “will not go into” a possible EU application from Ottawa.
Later, in response to a journalist’s question, Pinho confirmed that Article 49 of the Treaty on the European Union states that only European states can apply for EU membership.
Still, the poll underscores warming sentiment in Canada toward the EU: Some 68 percent of poll respondents said they hold a positive view of the bloc — double the 34 percent who said the same about the United States.
While Canadians overwhelmingly recognize Washington as their country’s most crucial international partner, the poll signals a shifting tide: More respondents saw the EU overtaking the U.S. as Canada’s primary global ally in the next three to five years.
Ottawa is also intent on deepening coordination with Brussels, especially on trade. As Canada’s Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly hosted G7 leaders in Charlevoix on Wednesday, she signaled that aligning with Europe on U.S. retaliatory tariffs will be a top priority.
“In every meeting, I will raise the issue of tariffs, to coordinate our response with the Europeans and to put pressure on the Americans,” Joly said.