Canada has officially joined the European Union’s new defense initiative, which aims to boost military arms production and reduce reliance on the United States. This announcement came during a throne speech delivered by King Charles III in Parliament on Tuesday.
The initiative, known as ReArm Europe, was first introduced by the EU in March and plans to allocate up to C$1.25 trillion for defense over the next five years. This includes a significant loan program called Security Action For Europe (SAFE), which is designed to help countries collaborate on purchasing or developing military equipment. The EU members approved this loan program just hours before the throne speech.
King Charles emphasized the Canadian government’s commitment to enhancing national defense. He stated that the government will focus on rebuilding and investing in the Canadian Armed Forces, while also strengthening ties with European partners. This move is seen as a crucial step in addressing new security threats, particularly in Canada’s northern regions.
The partnership with Europe comes at a time when Canada is reassessing its defense strategy, partly influenced by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments about Canada and NATO. The Canadian government has been in discussions with European leaders about deepening security cooperation for over a year, and these talks have gained urgency in light of recent geopolitical tensions.
Former Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly, who is now the Industry Minister, noted that concerns about U.S. intentions have accelerated these discussions. Prime Minister Mark Carney has actively engaged with European leaders to discuss the defense partnership, with a focus on ensuring Canada plays a significant role in transatlantic security.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed enthusiasm for working with Canada on defense matters, highlighting the importance of shared responsibility for security in Europe. She indicated that Europe must take on a greater role in its own defense, especially as the U.S. shifts its focus.
In addition to joining ReArm Europe, Carney’s government is committed to a "Made in Canada" defense strategy. This strategy aims to prioritize domestic production while fostering partnerships with allies. The government’s platform includes plans for nearly C$40 billion in new military spending over the next four years, with a goal of meeting NATO’s target of 2% of GDP by 2030.
While the throne speech did not detail these spending commitments, Carney stated that Canada will explore various defense partnerships, including those with the U.S., while also looking for alternatives among other allies.
This shift in Canada’s defense strategy reflects a broader trend of nations reevaluating their military alliances and production capabilities in response to changing global dynamics. As Canada strengthens its military ties with Europe, it aims to bolster its own defense capabilities while contributing to collective security efforts.