Germany's Merz hails EU-Canada ‘Alliance for the Future’

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday welcomed the launch of an "Alliance for the Future" between the European Union and Canada at a summit in Montreal, describing it as a unique partnership.

"In this summit, the European Union and Canada are establishing an 'Alliance for the Future'," Merz said in a statement. "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."

The step rests on shared values and a deep foundation of trust that unites the partners in an increasingly uncertain world, the chancellor said.

This unprecedented initiative will cover every aspect of the partnership, including security and defense, growth and employment, sustainable development, and people-to-people ties, he added.

"Through the Alliance for the Future, Canada and the European Union are forging closer ties in a truly unique way," Merz stressed. "Together, we aim to build a new strategic partnership that safeguards and promotes prosperity and economic security for our citizens."

The 21st EU-Canada summit is taking place in Montreal on Thursday and Friday amid talk by both sides of a closer relationship.

European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are representing the EU, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney leads the Canadian side.