Anthony Albanese grilled on joining European Union after Canada move

Anthony Albanese has refused to categorically rule out Australia joining the European Union after Donald Trump lashed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for moving Ottawa towards becoming the EU’s first-ever associate member.

Mr Trump warned the move by Canada could be considered a “hostile act” by Washington as the two leaders remain at loggerheads over a worsening trade war.

Mr Carney, who succeeded long-time Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in early-2025, suspended talks with the US in August over last minute demands by Washington and concerns about Canadian sovereignty.

The two sides have since imposed sprawling tit-for-tat tariffs, including on alcohol and automotive industries.

Following the escalation, Canada this week became the first country in the world to be offered status as an associate member of the EU.

Many international bodies, such as ASEAN and OPEC, have associate members who enjoy deep ties without inking formal membership status.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola hinted Australia and New Zealand could also follow a similar path to Canada in an interview with Europe Today.

“There are countries with which we want to deepen our relationship,” Mr Metsola said.

“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.”

Mr Albanese, who is in the US for talks with Silicon Valley and at the UN, said Australia was “a long way to Europe”.

However, when pressed on whether he was not interested in Australia joining the EU, Mr Albanese told the ABC “we, I think, have our focus”.

Pressed, he continued: “Well, my focus is on the free trade agreement (with the EU) and getting that in place in both Australia and in Europe”.

Canberra and Brussels inked a free trade agreement in March following months of negotiating.

Mr Albanese noted Australia’s status as a dialogue partner to ASEAN, the southeast Asian main multi-government body, as well as the Pacific Islands Forum.