In a statement marking the initiative at the EU-Canada summit in Montreal, Merz said the partnership would strengthen cooperation between the two sides amid growing global uncertainty, Anadolu Agency reported.
“In this summit, the European Union and Canada are establishing an ‘Alliance for the Future’,” Merz said. “In doing so, we Europeans are not only opening an entirely new chapter in our relations with one of our closest allies, but also forging a unique partnership with a country outside the European Union.”
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The German chancellor said the initiative was built on shared values and mutual trust, providing a foundation for closer cooperation in an increasingly uncertain international environment.
According to Merz, the partnership will cover a broad range of areas, including security and defense, economic growth, employment, sustainable development and people-to-people exchanges.
“Through the Alliance for the Future, Canada and the European Union are forging closer ties in a truly unique way,” he said, adding that both sides aimed to develop a strategic partnership to protect prosperity and strengthen economic security for their citizens.
The 21st EU-Canada summit is being held in Montreal on Thursday and Friday, as both sides seek to deepen their relationship.
European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are representing the EU, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is leading the Canadian delegation.
The initiative reflects efforts by Brussels and Ottawa to expand cooperation across security, economic and diplomatic priorities.
