Canada has obtained permission to join the SAFE (Security Action for Europe) defense funding program of the European Union, according to an announcement by European and Canadian leaders. This agreement, announced by the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, is considered an important step in deepening cooperation between the two parties.
SAFE aims to provide favorable loans for the joint purchase of weapons, in the context in which the EU strengthens its defense industry in the face of Russian aggression, while the USA withdraws from its traditional defense commitments.
Although arms purchases must have at least 65% of components manufactured in the EU, Canada could benefit from exceptions. The United Kingdom also wanted to join the program but withdrew due to the costs of joining.