Canada has reached an agreement with the EU to join its €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) program, making it the first third-party country to do so.
“This is the next step in our deepening cooperation and symbolic of the shared priorities of the European Union and Canada,” a joint statement between the EU and Canada said.
This follows months of complex negotiations and was communicated directly to ministers taking part in Monday's Foreign Affairs Council; Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius informed delegations that negotiations with Ottawa had concluded.
SAFE is a €150 billion readiness fund that is part of a major drive to get the EU ready to defend itself by 2030 amid fears of a Russian attack and doubts about U.S. protection.
Under SAFE, third countries can account for a maximum of 35% of the value of a weapons system paid for the scheme.
Canada will be able to have a larger share but will have to pay a fee.
Similar talks were held with the U.K., but fell apart on Friday.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed Canada to SAFE in a post to X.
“When like-minded partners join forces on security and defence in a turbulent world, our countries grow stronger, our industries benefit and our citizens are safer,” she said.
