The European Commission stated on Thursday that its proposal to make Canada an "associate member" of the European Union is not directed against the United States. The clarification followed remarks by President Donald Trump, who on Wednesday called the overture "laughable" and threatened to impose "very serious tariffs" or halt trade with Europe if the plan proceeds. Commission trade spokesperson Olof Gill said the proposed strengthening of partnership with Canada is for common strength rather than against anyone else. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen floated the idea during a speech before the European Parliament in Strasbourg, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in attendance.
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