EU has abandoned the associate membership for Canada, will choose a more cautious wording

EU member states have decided against offering Canada the status of "associated member" and instead opted for a commitment to "ever closer cooperation" ahead of the EU-Canada summit. This decision comes after Ursula von der Leyen's initial proposal in September, which surprised several countries. The summit, starting Thursday in Montreal, will see EU leaders discussing future partnerships with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The final statement will emphasize a closer partnership without full membership, reflecting a shift in the relationship dynamics between the EU and Canada.