EU - Canada: Standing ovation for Mark Carney at European Parliament

"I would like to work with you on opening the door for Canada to be the first associate member of the EU," von der Leyen told the Canadian prime minister, who was attending her annual keynote speech -- drawing a standing ovation in the chamber.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney received a standing ovation at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Wednesday.

MEPs rose from their seats and applauded as Carney addressed the chamber during his visit to the French city.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also raised the prospect of Canada becoming the EU’s first “associate member”, calling for closer cooperation between Canada and the bloc in areas including technology, defence and energy.