A momentous international summit in Yerevan, Armenia, has highlighted a shifting global order, withUS President Donald Trumpnotably absent from talks that brought together Canadian and European leaders seeking to recalibrate alliances amid growing uncertainty over Washington's policies.
Hosted by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, the gathering was part of the European Political Community, a bloc created in response to the geopolitical upheaval following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
This year's meeting, however, carried an added layer of significance: the inclusion of Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney, marking the first time a non-European leader was formally invited to a major European summit.
Carney's presence signalled more than symbolic unity. It reflected a growing alignment between Canada and European nations, driven in part by concerns over Trump's recent foreign and economic policies.
From proposed troop withdrawals in Europe to renewed tariff threats on European goods, Washington's moves have unsettled long-standing allies and prompted a search for new strategic partnerships.
'Integration is being used as a weapon by some,' Carney said during the summit, in remarks widely interpreted as a veiled critique of US policy. He reiterated his belief that the global order—long anchored by American leadership—may be entering a period of transformation, with Europe poised to play a central role in rebuilding it.
European leaders appeared eager to embrace Canada's outreach. Roberta Metsola described Carney's participation as both meaningful and timely, noting that in an increasingly unpredictable world, dependable partnerships are becoming harder to find. She suggested that deeper integration between Canada and Europe could emerge as a stabilising force.
Similarly, António Costa emphasised that while transatlantic ties remain important, they are no longer defined solely by relations with the United States. 'Our relationship is not only with the United States,' he said, highlighting a broader vision of cooperation among like-minded nations.
The discussions focused on deepening ties in trade, security, and technology, specifically on AI and quantum computing, as Canada and Europe seek to diversify their alliances.
Support for Ukraine: Carney announced $270 million (approximately £199 million) in new military aid for Ukraine and President Zelenskyy.
Source: International Business Times UK
