Ottawa, October 31 (QNA) - The European Union and Canada have launched an "Alliance of the Future" to deepen cooperation in trade, energy, artificial intelligence, critical minerals and defense amid growing global economic tensions.

The announcement followed a two-day summit in Montreal, where Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said negotiations were expected to conclude by June 2027 on a closer relationship with the EU, potentially making Canada its first associate member.

European leaders expressed support for strengthening ties, although disagreement remains over the proposed membership status.

The two sides also agreed to expand digital trade cooperation, explore Canadian LNG exports to Europe and strengthen cybersecurity and Arctic security.

The move comes as Canada and Europe seek to reduce their economic dependence on the United States amid trade tensions with Washington. (QNA)