EU reinforces partnership with Canada

At the 20th EU-Canada Summit, the leaders of the European Union and Canada agreed to deepen their cooperation and partnership. The parties signed a joint statement focusing on security and defense, but also containing elements of cooperation in research. The Canada-EU Digital Partnership emphasises strong research collaboration in advanced technologies critical to a robust digital economy, such as artificial intelligence, quantum science, and high-performance computing. Both parties aim to deepen joint research efforts in these strategic areas and expand cooperation through Canada's association with Horizon Europe and potential participation in the EU’s 10th Framework Programme. The partnership supports coordinated work on AI innovation—including AI Factories—and linking high-performance computing infrastructure. Furthermore, Canada and the EU are committed to regulatory alignment in technology fields (notably AI and cybersecurity), mutual recognition of product certifications, and advancing research security.

The agreement also fosters research and industrial cooperation in additional priority areas such as semiconductors, cyber security, climate change, oceans, circular economy, and polar research, as well as enhancing researcher mobility and training opportunities. It highlights the defence of academic freedom and protections for scientists. Finally, people-to-people ties will be strengthened through initiatives like Erasmus+, the European Research Council, and Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions, supporting education, research exchange, and increased international recognition.

For more information:

Joint statement