The European Parliament, a significant entity within the European Union, is preparing to establish a new office in the capital of Canada as Prime Minister Mark Carney aims to strengthen connections with the 27-member bloc.
In a press statement on Monday, Roberta Metsola, the president of the European Parliament, highlighted the shared values, interests, and commitment to an international rules-based order between Europe and Canada. The establishment of the Ottawa office will enhance the existing partnership through increased parliamentary collaboration.
This new office in Ottawa will be the 10th of its kind globally and the third in North America, following locations in New York and Washington. While the EU already maintains an embassy in Ottawa, it is under the management of the European Commission, which operates separately from the parliament as the executive arm of the bloc.
Prime Minister Carney announced plans on Sunday to initiate talks for a “unique alliance” with the European Union, emphasizing that this initiative does not involve seeking EU membership. Carney emphasized the alignment of values, priorities, and complementary strengths between Canada and the EU as he prepares to address the European Parliament later this week.