Strengthening relations between states committed to a fair and democratic, multilatral order

Canada, alongside the European Union, India, Brazil, Australia, Barbados, and Kenya, launched the Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace and Prosperity (P4M) initiative on September 21, 2026.

The P4M Initiative

• Launch Date: September 21, 2026, on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
• Core Members: Canada, India, Brazil, Australia, Barbados, Kenya, and the European Union (joined by additional signatories).
• Purpose: Designed to defend multilateralism, reform and strengthen UN institutions, ensure fair international trade, and build resilient supply chains against economic coercion.

Bilateral Progress

• Canada-India Relations: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are actively working to finalize a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) targeting a major boost in bilateral trade

https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2026/09/22/opening-remarks-by-president-antonio-costa-at-the-partners-for-multilateralism-summit/

https://thelogicalindian.com/india-joins-22-countries-in-new-p4m-push-128138/

https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-joins-eu-brazil-canada-and-australia-to-back-multilateralism-101790103734127-amp.html

The European Union and Canada are working to create a historic "unique alliance," with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposing in September 2026 that Canada become the EU’s first-ever associate member.

Key Details of the Proposal

• Associate Status: The new category of "associate member" is designed to build a deep transatlantic alignment without requiring full EU membership.
• Core Areas: The partnership covers critical raw materials, artificial intelligence (AI), research, digital trade, and technology.
• Security and Defense: Both sides are expanding cooperation on defense industrial bases and joint procurement

Background and Context

·         The U.S. Factor: Tighter ties with Europe come amid strained trade relations and tariff disputes between Canada and the United States.

·         Political Talks: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney visited the European Parliament in Strasbourg to advocate for the partnership, calling it a beacon for democratic cooperation.

·         Public Support: Recent polls show strong public backing in Canada for building closer foreign policy and economic ties with European nations. 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwly7vkke4jxo

https://www.politico.eu/article/eu-canada-new-partnership-ambassador-jonathan-wilkinson/