NDP Reaction to Associate EU Membership Proposal

NDP Foreign Affairs Critic Heather McPherson made the following statement regarding Canada-EU talks:
"At a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty and an increasingly difficult trade relationship with the United States, Canada should be building stronger relationships with democratic partners around the world. We should never be dependent on any single country for our economic security, our prosperity, or our future.
We believe Canada can develop stronger ties with the European Union on the issues that matter most to people: including harmonizing regulations to rein in big tech, promoting good jobs, climate action, clean energy, research and innovation.
This conversation is still at a very early stage, but it is an important opportunity to think differently about Canada’s place in the world. New Democrats will approach these discussions with an open mind and clear principles. We want to build a more independent, prosperous, and sustainable Canada where working people, young Canadians and communities benefit from the relationships we build.
There is no existing definition of “associate member” of the European Union, and Canada is not seeking full membership in the EU. The details of any new arrangement will require careful consideration, public debate, and parliamentary scrutiny. Any agreement must respect Canadian sovereignty and serve the interests of Canadians.
New Democrats will always advocate for stronger labour standards, protections for public services, human rights, environmental protections, and a commitment to ensuring that the benefits of increased trade and investment are shared broadly, rather than flowing primarily to corporations and private investors. We look forward to bringing those priorities to Parliament and to the Canadian public as this conversation moves forward.
There is also potential for Canadians, particularly young people, in closer ties with the EU. Greater opportunities to work, study, conduct research and build relationships across Europe could open doors for a new generation of Canadians. We should also pursue greater recognition of professional credentials so Canadians can take their skills and experience with them.
Canada and the EU already have a substantial relationship through CETA, the Strategic Partnership Agreement and growing cooperation on security, climate, research, and other areas. The question before us now is how we build on that foundation and make it more ambitious, more resilient, and more beneficial to Canadians."