European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has welcomed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to Strasbourg, calling for closer cooperation between Canada and Europe across everything from defence and trade to energy and education.Carney addressed the European Parliament today, as EU and Canadian leaders explore ways of deepening their relationship.“Together we can break new and exciting ground and ultimately improve lives,” Metsola told the Canadian leader as she welcomed him to the chamber.She pointed to the long history shared between Canada and Europe, recalling the role Canadian troops played on the continent during both World Wars. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)She highlighted battles including Ypres, the Somme and Passchendaele during World War I, before turning to the sacrifices made by Canadian forces during the liberation of Europe in World War II.“Europe will always be grateful for the sacrifice of so many who stood with us and defended freedom and democracy,” Metsola said.But her speech was also firmly focused on what could come next.Metsola said there was potential for greater EU-Canada cooperation in defence, trade, energy, education and research, describing recent moves towards deepening the relationship as a “huge positive step forward”.Carney’s appearance comes at a significant moment for EU-Canada relations, with the Canadian Prime Minister expected to address shared security and economic interests during his visit.The European Parliament had previously confirmed that his formal address would cover the relationship between the two sides amid growing geopolitical tensions.Metsola said the partnership between Canada and the EU was built on shared values and the belief that both sides are stronger when they work together.“Today is another milestone in that shared journey,” she told Carney before handing him the floor.What do you make of the proposed Canada-EU alliance?•