EU chief backs plan for Canada to become 'associate member'

The president of the European Commission has backed proposals for Canada to become the EU's first "associate member".
Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament on Wednesday she wanted to work on "opening the door" for Canada, which would involve closer ties on various key sectors.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney last week spoke of seeking a "unique alliance" with the EU. The country currently faces tense relations with the US, compounded by an intensifying dispute over trade.