Canada Joins EU SAFE Defense Program as First Non-EU Member

Canada has become the first non-European Union country to join a major EU defense financing program, securing access to billions in loans for military equipment procurement amid efforts to diversify its partnerships away from the United States.

The agreement, announced on Monday, allows Ottawa to participate in the Security Action for Europe, or SAFE, initiative, a 150 billion euro program designed to provide favorable loans for joint weapons purchases among participating nations. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the deal in a joint statement, describing it as a step to enhance cooperation in a time of global instability. "In these geopolitically turbulent times, SAFE is a means to increase cooperation, meet defense targets and spend better, as we address short-term urgency and long-term needs," they said. The accord grants Canada the right to contribute financially and engage in projects, fostering resilient supply chains between Canadian and European industries.

SAFE, launched earlier this year, responds to heightened security concerns in Europe, including threats from Russia and uncertainties over U.S....