European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has told Europe Today that countries including Australia and New Zealand could follow Canada in becoming “associate members” of the European Union as like-minded nations seek closer ties. Metsola described the proposed status as a third way between full EU membership and candidate status.
“I don’t doubt that it will include other countries, and others will come knocking at our door. In such times of uncertainty, having friends matters.” — Metsola said.
Metsola acknowledged that talks are still at an early stage, while pointing to deeper trade relations, access to critical raw materials and common regulations on issues that “like-minded” countries care deeply about, such as social media and the protection of minors.
Metsola played down the threats, saying the EU views its relationships with the two countries separately. She said that the EU does not work against anyone but acts as an advocate for rules-based cooperation.
She also pointed to the trade deal with Australia, agreed last summer and ratified this year.
