Drifting from the U.S.: Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau Announces Joining EU's Key Defense Program

Canada has joined the EU's multi-billion-dollar defense fund, becoming the first non-EU country to do so. Ottawa's move aims to reduce its reliance on the U.S. for defense spending and diversify its military procurement and trade partnerships.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday that participating in the EU's "European Security Initiative Fund" (SAFE) will bring "great opportunities" for Canadian defense companies to better enter the European market in "this dangerous and divided world."

In a statement, Trudeau said, "Canada's participation in the 'European Security Initiative Fund' will fill its key capability gaps and expand the market for Canadian suppliers, attracting European defense investment into Canada."

In another joint statement with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Trudeau said, "This is the next step in deepening our cooperation and symbolizes our shared priorities between the EU and Canada."

Earlier this year, the EU announced the establishment of a "European Security Initiative Fund" worth up to 150 billion euros (about 170 billion U.S. dollars). This move was driven by concerns over a potential Russian attack and doubts about the reliability of U.S. military protection among member states.

The "European Security Initiative Fund" is hailed as a major initiative by the EU to "accelerate defense readiness." The EU aims to complete military modernization by 2030 to be capable of withstanding external threats.

Before joining the "European Security Initiative Fund," Trudeau had stated that he planned to diversify Canada's procurement and trade partnerships and strengthen relations with the EU. Trudeau had also previously indicated that more than 70 cents of every Canadian dollar spent on military capital would no longer go to the U.S.

Canada's move came after U.S. President Donald Trump launched a trade war earlier this year and suggested that Canada become the 51st state of the U.S. – a move that angered Canadians.

According to joint weapon projects under the "European Security Initiative Fund," at least 65% of components must be produced within the 27 EU member states, but partner countries like Canada may be exempted.

Priority defense spending under this initiative includes purchases of missiles and ammunition, artillery systems, ground combat capabilities, drones and anti-drone systems, cyber warfare, air defense and missile defense, maritime forces, electronic warfare, and "space asset protection."

Recent negotiations between the EU and London regarding the UK's participation in the fund ended without an agreement last week.

The talks hit a deadlock over funding issues, with the European side demanding participation fees higher than what the UK government was willing to pay.

Most EU member states will include these projects in four flagship areas proposed by the EU: the Drone Defense Initiative, Eastern Wing Alert, Air Shield, and Space Shield.

Source: Al Jazeera Plus News Agency

Original: toutiao.com/article/1850404674186244/

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