Von der Leyen eyes Canada as EU's first 'associate member'

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the European Union was opening the door for ‌Canada ⁠to ⁠become its first associate member — a position that the bloc would have to create from scratch. Von der Leyen's comments came during her annual speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, while Candanian Prime Minister Mark Carney was in attendance. This comes days after the Wall Street Journal reported that Carney was exploring an "associate membership" with the bloc, a position that does not currently exist. Earlier this week, Carney responded to the story, saying he sought a "unique alliance" with the bloc and not a membership. "Partnerships are a ​strategic ‌choice for Europe.