Canada and Europe face shared challenge of diversifying without antagonizing the US and China
Canada and the EU want to help reshape the global order while reducing dependence on the major powers. A Politico Europe analysis says both must keep relations with the US and China intact.
Canada and the European Union are looking for ways to reshape the international order and widen their circle of partners, but they must avoid confrontation with the United States and China. That is the conclusion of a Politico Europe analysis of the challenges the two sides share.
Two visions
Mark Carney, representing Canada, is pushing the idea of an alliance of middle powers. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, for her part, is trying to strengthen the EU's influence. The outlet notes that it is unclear whose vision will prevail.
Tension with Washington
The analysis also points out that US President Donald Trump's trade war with Canada is likely to drag on beyond the US midterm elections. Relations between Washington and Ottawa are described as at a steady simmer, with little sign of de-escalation.
A diplomatic misstep
Politico also recalls an earlier episode in which von der Leyen committed a diplomatic faux pas involving Carney. It caused the Commission president an unwanted headache at a time when she wanted to consolidate her position.
The task common to both sides is to build new partnerships and reduce reliance on the largest economies without turning any of them into an adversary.
