Prime Minister Mark Carney faced an unexpected interruption during his speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg when German MEP Siegbert Droese chanted “U.S.A.! U.S.A.!” Some attendees groaned, but Carney maintained his composure and proceeded to discuss the importance of strengthening ties between Canada and the EU for a prosperous future.
Droese explained that his chant aimed to highlight the significant influence of the United States in global affairs. Carney, in response, displayed a sense of humor, according to Droese.
Carney’s address at the Parliament marked a significant move in the ongoing efforts to enhance Canada-EU relations. This speech followed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s proposal for Canada to potentially become the EU’s first “associate member,” a novel designation that remains undefined.
Droese criticized von der Leyen’s proposal, labeling it as impractical and unfounded within the existing European treaties. The MEP, affiliated with the far-right Alternative for Germany party, expressed skepticism about the motives behind the potential agreement between Canada and the EU.
The AfD, known for its controversial policies advocating mass deportations and a nationalist cultural agenda, has gained traction among German voters. Droese accused von der Leyen of seeking alternatives to strained U.S. relations through the proposed partnership with Canada.
In closing, Droese remarked on the irony of how a simple chant invoking the United States sparked such a reaction, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy and alliances.