Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is embarking on a significant five-day trip to Europe aimed at strengthening Canada’s ties with the European Union and asserting Canadian influence in the realm of artificial intelligence regulation. The visit, which will primarily take place in Paris for the AI Action Summit, marks the third major global gathering focused on the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. Following the summit, Trudeau will head to Brussels for discussions with European Union leaders.
This trip comes at a pivotal moment, as U.S. President Donald Trump recently paused his proposed tariffs on Canadian imports, signaling a potential shift in the trade landscape. Trump, who has expressed intentions to target Europe next, has prompted discussions about coordinating responses among Canada and EU leaders. Carleton University’s Achim Hurrelmann noted that this moment of reprieve for Canada provides a strategic opportunity to align with the EU, especially in the face of American trade threats.
The backdrop of Trudeau’s visit includes Trump’s recent signing of an order imposing tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports. After discussions with Trudeau, Trump agreed to hold off on the tariffs until March 4, pending the possibility of a final economic deal with Canada. This context sets the stage for Trudeau to discuss trade relationships and strategies to enhance economic ties with Europe.
Experts suggest that European representatives may inquire about Trudeau’s approach to securing the tariff extension as they explore ways to bolster Canada-EU trade. Hurrelmann emphasized the potential for increased trade between Canada and Europe, particularly in light of Canada’s strategic raw materials, which are of growing interest to European markets.
The relationship between Canada and the EU is generally positive, characterized by mutual alignment on global issues through agreements such as the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly has previously highlighted the importance of the trade deal in diversifying Canada’s markets.
Despite a history of slow progress in strengthening economic ties, the current climate may provide the impetus needed to advance this relationship. Trudeau’s brief stop in Brussels is seen as a gesture of solidarity and a commitment to coordinate efforts in response to external pressures, particularly from the United States.
Artificial intelligence is expected to be a key topic of discussion during Trudeau’s meetings in Brussels, especially as the EU continues to develop its regulatory framework for AI. With the U.S. tech sector pushing back against these regulations, the potential for conflict over AI legislation looms large.
The AI Action Summit in Paris will focus on critical themes such as AI’s impact on the public interest, the future of work, innovation, and global governance. Trudeau will have the opportunity to engage with other world leaders, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and French President Emmanuel Macron, as well as Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang.
As Canada seeks to enhance its role in the global conversation surrounding artificial intelligence, the outcomes of this trip could have lasting implications for Canada’s trade relationships and its standing in international discussions on technology regulation.