At their 2026 Montréal convention, Canadian Liberals signalled a shift toward closer EU cooperation, as Prime Minister Mark Carney called for stronger middle-power alignment to reduce dependence on the United States and strengthen the international order.
On 9-11 April, the Liberal Party of Canada inspired political momentum at this year's Liberal National Convention as it headed into by-elections. The convention underscored the importance of EU-Canada relations amid shifting global relations.
Over 4,500 delegates gathered for the convention, making it the largest policy convention in the party’s history. Following a successful election campaign, the liberals earned their largest vote share in nearly half a century.
More than half of the participants attended for the first time, reflecting growing liberal momentum. Party leader Carney highlighted that over 300,000 people had joined the party in the past year, underlining its expanding base and renewed political energy.
“This is not the time for politics as usual, petty differences or political point scoring,” Carney told delegates. “United, we will build Canada Strong – a Canada Strong for all, a Canada Strong that no one can ever take away.”
The convention signalled a broader strategic shift. Carney emphasised the importance of cooperation between “middle powers” to reduce dependence on the United States, particularly in light of recent geopolitical uncertainty. Closer alignment between partners such as the EU and Canada is vital for a strong NATO.
Earlier this year, Carney made it clear in his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos that the international rules-based order is over and countries must adapt. Canada is increasingly being positioned as a key partner for Europe, not only through deeper trade and security cooperation, but also through stronger cultural and political ties.
Cynthia Ní Mhurchú MEP (Fianna Fáil, IE) commented on the importance of relations with Canda:
“Canada is not just a partner, it is becoming EU’s most important strategic ally. In a more fragmented world, we need trusted countries that share our commitment to open societies, fair trade and multilateral cooperation. CETA is delivering, but more must be done to advertise its benefits and EU countries have to step up to the plate and finally ratify it.”
For European liberals, this presents a clear opportunity to deepen cooperation with a like-minded partner in order to ensure transatlantic security and economic ties beyond traditional US leadership.
The convention underscored a broader shift: defending democratic values will increasingly rely on stronger coordination beyond Europe’s immediate neighbourhood.