A coalition of Canadian foreign policy and trade experts is pressing Prime Minister Mark Carney and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to seize their upcoming Montreal summit as an opportunity to establish a landmark charter of shared principles for middle powers.
The proposed framework, put forward by the Expert Group on Canada-U.S. Relations, aims to deepen ties between Canada and the European Union as both jurisdictions seek to diversify their international partnerships amid growing unpredictability from the United States under Donald Trump’s protectionist policies.
A Charter for the Future
The initiative draws inspiration from the historic 1941 Atlantic Charter, the joint declaration by Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill that laid the groundwork for the United Nations and NATO. The new charter would be open to like-minded democracies seeking to uphold multilateral cooperation and rule-based governance in an increasingly fragmented global order.
“This isn’t just about trade agreements or diplomatic protocol,” said one anonymous expert involved in the discussions. “It’s about building a coalition of middle powers that can collectively shape international norms and institutions when traditional powers are stepping back.”
The Montreal meeting, scheduled for late October, represents a pivotal moment for Canada-EU relations. Both parties have signalled their commitment to strengthening economic, security, and environmental cooperation as they navigate a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape.
Carney’s Domestic Priorities
While international alliances take centre stage, Prime Minister Carney remains focused on domestic unity. His recent tour of Alberta underscores the urgency of maintaining national cohesion ahead of Monday’s provincial referendum on separation.
During his Calgary visit, Carney rallied support for the pro-Confederation cause, urging Albertans to reject not only the separation question but also eight other ballot items covering immigration and constitutional reform. “Our strength lies in our diversity and our shared commitment to democratic institutions,” he told supporters at an evening rally organised by the Forever Canadian group.
Carney’s itinerary also included meetings with local businesses, union workers, and post-secondary students, reinforcing his government’s emphasis on inclusive economic growth and youth engagement.
Economic Reforms and Political Debates
National economic policy continues to evolve, with business leaders expressing strong support for comprehensive tax reform ahead of next year’s federal budget. A KPMG survey revealed widespread backing among corporate executives for a major overhaul of Canada’s tax system, viewed as essential for boosting competitiveness and attracting investment.
Meanwhile, British Columbia’s political landscape heated up as party leaders clashed in their sole televised debate before the October 24 provincial election. Healthcare funding, fiscal responsibility, and indigenous rights emerged as key battlegrounds, with voters set to decide between the NDP, Conservatives, and Greens in just over a week.
Government Activity Across the Country
Federal ministers maintained an active presence across the country this week. Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson joined her provincial counterparts in New Brunswick for announcements affecting Atlantic fisheries, while Energy Minister Tim Hodgson collaborated with Premier Tim Houston and Justice Minister Sean Fraser on offshore wind development funding in Nova Scotia.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly promoted the National Food Security Strategy in Peterborough, Ontario, addressing supply chain vulnerabilities exposed by recent global disruptions. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand concluded a diplomatic mission spanning India and the United Arab Emirates, focusing on trade diversification and cultural diplomacy.
Political leaders also made their presence felt domestically. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre addressed the Canada Strong and Free conference in Calgary, while Green Party Leader Elizabeth May canvassed with BC Green leader Emily Lowan ahead of the provincial election.
Global Implications of Shifting Alliances
The push for a middle-power charter reflects broader concerns about democratic resilience and international stability. As traditional alliances face strain and authoritarian powers assert greater influence, smaller democracies are exploring new forms of collective action.
“We’re witnessing a fundamental re-alignment of global politics,” noted political analyst Dr. Margaret McCuaig-Boyd. “Canada and the EU have an opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating that principled multilateralism remains viable even in turbulent times.”
The success of such an initiative would depend heavily on concrete deliverables—from regulatory harmonisation to joint infrastructure projects—that translate diplomatic rhetoric into tangible benefits for citizens on both sides of the Atlantic.
Why it Matters
This potential charter represents more than symbolic diplomacy; it signals a strategic pivot toward proactive multilateralism that could reshape North American-European relations for decades. As transatlantic ties face unprecedented uncertainty under changing U.S. administrations, Canada and the EU stand at a crossroads where bold institutional innovation might secure their shared interests in democracy, climate action, and economic resilience. The outcome of the Montreal summit will likely determine whether middle powers can effectively counterbalance great-power competition through coordinated, values-driven governance—or remain vulnerable to forces beyond their control.
Liam MacKenzie is a parliamentary affairs correspondent specialising in Canada-EU relations and middle-power diplomacy.