Canada becomes first non-European nation at EPC summit, as Carney seeks stronger allies

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will attend the upcoming European Political Community summit in Yerevan, making Canada the first non-European nation to join the gathering.

The summit will bring together leaders from more than 48 countries as Carney seeks to strengthen Canada’s diplomatic and trade relationships beyond the US following renewed tensions under US President Donald Trump.

Discussions at the meeting are expected to focus on Trump’s plans to reduce US troop numbers in Germany and the economic impact of the ongoing Iran conflict.

Canada’s participation is also being viewed as a sign of Western support for Armenia as it continues efforts to reduce its dependence on Russia and strengthen ties with Europe.

The European Political Community was established in 2022 and includes EU member states as well as non-EU countries such as the United Kingdom, Turkey and Serbia.

Analyst Thomas de Waal of Carnegie Europe said Armenia was at a key political moment as it pursued closer relations with Europe and negotiations with neighbouring Azerbaijan, according to The Guardian.

The summit will also highlight Armenia’s broader efforts to move politically closer to the European Union while balancing pressure from Moscow.