The Canadian government’s plan to strengthen ties with the European Union is a smart move as the trade war with the United States wages on, a University of Guelph political scientist says.
Dr. Edward Koning, who studies European politics and immigration policies, says Prime Minister Mark Carney’s plan to allow for an antenna office of the European Parliament in Ottawa has an important symbolic function. Koning adds it can also facilitate exchanges between Canadian and EU parliaments, increase Canadian familiarity with the EU and encourage mutual policy learning.
“One of the advantages is a better ability for Canada to shield itself from an unpredictable neighbour to the south,” he says, adding it offers some hope for more stability in world politics during uncertain times.
The move is in line with Carney’s comments at Davos earlier this year.
“He called for ‘middle powers’ to step up now that U.S. foreign policy is more volatile,” Koning explains. “The trade war is probably the largest impetus, but this also points to a desire from both Ottawa and Brussels to seek international approaches to global problems and to pursue some sort of rule-based order in international politics.”
While the alliance is advantageous for Canada, Koning says it’s important to note that Carney’s goal is not to join the EU, particularly since EU treaties explicitly state only countries on the continent can join. “Canada joining the EU is an entirely unrealistic scenario.”
Carney will address the European Parliament later this week.
Koning is available for interviews.
Contact:
Dr. Edward Koning
ekoning@uoguelph.ca