Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson suggested on May 31, 2026, that Canada could theoretically find a place within the European Union, characterizing the nation as the "most Nordic country in the world outside the Nordics." Speaking to CTV Question Period host Vassy Kapelos, Kristersson acknowledged the geographic limitations of the bloc but emphasized that the EU is also defined by a shared set of values among like-minded nations.
"The European Union is obviously a matter of geography, you can hear that from the name," Kristersson said. He added, while laughing, that the EU remains a "very welcoming club for the like-minded."
This sentiment echoes recent comments from Finnish President Alexander Stubb, who told CTV last month that he would "embrace" the prospect of Canada joining the EU. Stubb suggested that Canada would "slot into the system like nothing before" due to the alignment of political and social outlooks between the two regions.
These diplomatic overtures coincide with intensifying industrial cooperation between Canada and Sweden, specifically regarding defence procurement. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government is currently in negotiations to acquire the GlobalEye surveillance platform, a system that integrates Swedish Saab technology with Canadian-made Bombardier aircraft.
Kristersson characterized the potential GlobalEye deal as a "joint effort" between the two nations, highlighting the deepening industrial ties between Swedish and Canadian firms. Stephen Fuhr, the Secretary of State for Defence Procurement, stated that these negotiations represent a significant export opportunity, noting that Canada could eventually supply finished aircraft to other international allies.
However, the procurement strategy has faced domestic political pushback. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the government’s approach during a press conference on Parliament Hill, arguing that the administration is prioritizing bureaucracy and consultants over the efficient delivery of equipment to the Canadian Armed Forces.
"We 100 per cent support more military spending, but we want to turn that spending into better equipment and better results for our soldiers," Poilievre said. He expressed concern that the current procurement process is becoming excessively expensive and complex.
Beyond the GlobalEye project, Canada remains in the midst of evaluating a bid from Saab for the purchase of Gripen fighter jets. This evaluation is occurring in parallel with an ongoing review of the American-made F-35 aircraft, as the federal government weighs its long-term defence requirements.
