Canada, the 28th member of the EU? - Why the country is aiming for a closer relationship with Brussels
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who holds both Canadian and British passports, represents a unique bridge between the English-speaking world and a Europe increasingly wary of American isolationism. The summit in Armenia could offer Canada a vital opening to build new European ties.
Some 57% of Canadians now support joining the 27-member bloc, with 84% prioritizing stronger economic ties as a hedge against political turmoil in the U.S. Recent polls show that majorities of Germans and Spaniards support Canada's EU membership, while in Poland, France and Italy, supporters significantly outnumber those against it.
Ottawa is not an easy geopolitical destination. Canada’s population is about 41.5 million, roughly 10% of that of the EU. Although a founding member of NATO, it remains outside the European Economic Area. However, its GDP per capita remains significantly higher than the EU average, so if Canada were ever to join the union, it would be a wealthy net contributor.
Yet, despite the public enthusiasm, the “Brussels bubble” has issued a polite reality check. European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, recently said that Canada does not meet the “European state” requirement of Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union. Unlike Ukraine, Turkey or Cyprus, Canada lacks the ancient geographical and cultural ties necessary to comply with the current treaties without a full legal overhaul.
However, the relationship could evolve towards a personalized model that mirrors that of Norway, or Switzerland, a “close family” relationship that ensures deep integration into the single market and security programs, while stopping too close to a formal union.
And to that, Canadians may one day say "Yes," or "oui," since both English and French are official languages.
Business profits increase/ In the first three months, the budget collected 196 million euros in taxes
In the first three months of the year, businesses in the country have paid a significant amount of tax on accumulated profit, which is recorded at......
Kombinat-Ndroq-Plepa Road/ ARRSH plans two tenders for the reconstruction, the fund limit is almost 3 billion lek
The Albanian Road Authority is expected to open two procurement procedures for the continuation of the reconstruction of the old Kombinat - Ndroq - Plepa......
Euro gains ground in lending in March/ The European currency dominates business loans, the lek remains for individuals
According to data from the “Bank of Albania”, new loans by currency show a noticeable shift towards the euro in March, despite the strengthening of the lek......
What's driving demand for Airbnb in the south? Albanian Riviera, peaking with festivals and beach season
As for the summer season in 2026, the short-term rental market in Albania is expected to be significantly impacted by a series of events and tourist seasons......
"Emirates' exit from OPEC, in national interests" - ADNOC CEO: It is not directed against anyone
The United Arab Emirates' decision to leave OPEC and OPEC+ was not directed against anyone but was intended to serve national interests, Abu Dhabi National......
Citizens curb spending - BoA: While some sectors grow, uncertainty about prices and employment remains high
Confidence in the economy has declined during April, according to the latest survey published by the Bank of Albania, showing a mix of positive and negative......
6,000 lek ceiling for roaming, no more "hidden" fees - AKEP: New regulation aims to protect users from uncontrolled costs
The new draft regulation for consumer protection in electronic communications is expected to bring concrete changes to the daily lives of telephone and......
Donation and inheritance of properties, tax halved - Albanians pay less in 2025, new law eases obligations
The tax paid by citizens for donating real estate was halved last year. According to official data from the General Directorate of Taxes, in 2025, 16.2......
