Ursula von der Leyen, the European Union president, has backed plans for Canada to become an EU associate member.

Ms von der Leyen, addressing the European Parliament on Wednesday with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in attendance, said she wanted to open the door for the country, which would involve closer ties in various key sectors.

“We want to bring the relationship with Canada to the highest level possible. I said we must urgently reimagine our partnerships. I’d like to work with you, Mark, for opening the door of Canada to being the first associate member of the European Union,” the EU president stated.

Last week, Mr Carney noted Canada is seeking a “unique alliance” with the EU as its trade war with the United States intensifies.

“What we are looking—and will begin discussions for—is a unique alliance with the European Union. We share the same values. We have the same priorities, and we have very complementary strengths,” he said.

Ms von der Leyen said the potential partnerships would not be against anyone and noted that the bloc and Canada believe in democracy.

“The bloc and Canada see the world with the same eyes. And we have stood together: on Ukraine, on defence, on raw materials and on supply chains. But above all. Europe and Canada believe in democracy,” the EU president explained.

The development came as trade talks between Canada and the U.S. collapsed last month, leading to several new tariff measures.

Meanwhile, Mr Trump described the proposed alliance as laughable and threatened to slam the EU.

“If they do that, if I think it’s at all a hostile act, I will put very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe on many things. If it’s a good intention, that’s fine. If it’s a bad intention, we’ll put very heavy tariffs on Europe, which is a possibility,” the U.S. president stated.