June 23, 2025
Brussels, Belgium
Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met with the Prime Minister of Belgium, Bart De Wever.
Prime Minister Carney congratulated Prime Minister De Wever on taking office in February and emphasized the longstanding ties between Canada and Belgium.
The leaders discussed expanding bilateral trade and investment, with a focus on advancing clean energy solutions such as nuclear and hydrogen, strengthening critical minerals supply chains, and deepening co-operation on defence procurement.
They affirmed their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and agreed on the imperative of achieving a just and lasting peace. The leaders also underscored their commitment to defence co-operation in support of security in Europe, particularly on NATO’s eastern flank.
Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister De Wever agreed to remain in close contact and looked forward to continuing discussions at the NATO Summit in The Hague, the Netherlands, later this week.
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June 23, 2025
Brussels, Belgium
Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, announced an historic step forward for Canada’s relationship with the European Union (EU). Together with President Costa and President von der Leyen, the Prime Minister announced they will forge a new, ambitious, and comprehensive partnership. The New EU-Canada Strategic Partnership of the Future is rooted in shared values and the rules-based international system, and strategically aimed to pursue common interests.
Canada and the EU will soon launch comprehensive negotiations across multiple areas to strengthen co-operation and connection – including trade and economic security, the digital transition, and the fight against climate change and environmental degradation. This will create more economic opportunities and long-term prosperity for workers, businesses, and citizens in both Canada and the EU.
As part of this new, strengthened relationship, Canada and the EU today signed the Security and Defence Partnership, which provides a framework for dialogue and co-operation in security and defence priorities. For Canada and the EU Member States who are NATO Allies, this will also help deliver on capability targets more quickly and economically. This new partnership is the intentional first step toward Canada’s participation in Security Action for Europe (SAFE), an instrument of the ReArm Europe Plan/Readiness 2030. Canada’s participation in this initiative will create significant defence procurement and industrial opportunities for Canada.
In an increasingly dangerous and divided world, Canada’s new government is focused on strengthening and diversifying our international partnerships. We will work with the EU and other allies to build a new international, rules-based system for a more secure and prosperous world.
Quote
“Canada’s new government has a mandate to diversify and strengthen international partnerships. To that end, we took an historic step forward today to deepen Canada’s relationship with the European Union. Through increased co-operation in defence, trade, and commerce, we’ll create greater prosperity, security, and stability on both sides of the Atlantic.”
— The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- While in Belgium, Prime Minister Carney also met with the Prime Minister of Belgium, Bart De Wever, to strengthen bilateral ties and advance common priorities. The two leaders visited the Antwerp Schoonselhof Military Cemetery to pay tribute to Canadian Armed Forces members who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars.
- Unveiled earlier this year, the ReArm Europe Plan/Readiness 2030 is the European Commission’s plan to boost defence funding in Europe, including through Security Action for Europe (SAFE) loans. This initiative provides up to €150 billion in loans to EU Member States, members of the EU single market, and Ukraine to support defence investments, with a focus on joint procurement projects.
Related Products
- Canada-European Union Joint Statement: Enduring Partnership, Ambitious Agenda
- Canada-European Union Security and Defence Partnership
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June 23, 2025
Ottawa, Ontario
“Forty years ago, innocent civilians, including over 250 Canadians, were killed in the bombing of Air India Flight 182. This terrorist attack remains the deadliest attack in our country’s history – one we must never forget.
“As we mark the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism, we remember the victims of the Air India bombing and all others who have lost their lives to terrorism.
“Canada will continue to work with our allies and partners, at home and around the world, to better detect, prevent, and respond to the threat of terrorism and violent extremism. We are also increasing funding for national security, defence, and law enforcement, and enhancing intelligence sharing with our allies.
“Canada’s new government unequivocally stands against terrorism, and we will deliver on our mandate of change to keep communities safe.”
June 22, 2025
Ottawa, Ontario
“Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of John McCallum, who was an inspiration, a mentor, and a friend.
“John served Canada and academia with great
“As an exemplary public servant, economist, diplomat, and parliamentarian, John’s
“As a Member of Parliament, he brought that same purpose and conviction to public service. His leadership in Canada’s Cabinet included serving as Minister of National Defence, Veterans Affairs, Immigration, and more. As Canada’s Ambassador to China, he brought his expertise to shaping one of Canada’s most consequential bilateral relationships.
“John believed in Canada as a place of opportunity and enormous potential. With his values of humility and service, John leaves a lasting legacy to his community and country. With my deepest condolences to John’s friends and family at this difficult time.”