Brussels responded positively to a recent poll indicating Canadian interest in joining the European Union—before swiftly clarifying that such a prospect is not feasible.
The survey, conducted by Abacus Data in late February, found that 44 percent of Canadian respondents supported EU membership, while 34 percent opposed it. A broader question on general support for joining the bloc saw 46 percent approval.
The findings were met with amused appreciation in Brussels.
“We are honored by the results of this poll. It highlights the European Union’s appeal and demonstrates that a significant portion of Canadians value the EU and its principles,” said Paula Pinho, spokesperson for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, during a Commission briefing on Wednesday. However, she declined to speculate on the possibility of an EU membership bid from Ottawa.
Later, in response to a journalist’s inquiry, Pinho confirmed that under Article 49 of the Treaty on the European Union, only European states are eligible to apply for membership.
Nonetheless, the poll reflects growing Canadian affinity for the EU. Some 68 percent of respondents held a favorable view of the bloc—twice the 34 percent who expressed similar sentiments toward the United States.
Although Canadians widely recognize Washington as their country’s most vital international partner, the poll suggests shifting perspectives: More respondents predicted that the EU would surpass the U.S. as Canada’s primary global ally within the next three to five years.
The changing dynamic comes as U.S. President Donald Trump, who returned to office earlier this year, has floated the idea of Canada becoming America’s 51st state while simultaneously igniting a trade dispute by imposing tariffs on certain Canadian exports.
Meanwhile, Ottawa is seeking to strengthen ties with Brussels, particularly in trade. Hosting G7 leaders in Charlevoix on Wednesday, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized the importance of coordinating with Europe on retaliatory measures against U.S. tariffs.
“In every meeting, I will bring up the issue of tariffs to align our response with the Europeans and apply pressure on the Americans,” Joly stated.
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