Prime Minister Mark Carney to attend European Political Community Summit in Armenia

Ottawa: Mark Carney is set to represent Canada for the first time at the European Political Community Summit, scheduled to take place in Yerevan from May 2 to May 4, 2026.

The visit marks a historic milestone, as it will be the first time a non-European leader participates in the summit and the first official visit to Armenia by a Canadian prime minister in nearly a decade.

Strengthening ties with Europe

Carney will attend the 8th European Political Community Summit at the invitation of António Costa and Nikol Pashinyan.

The summit will bring together European leaders to address key global challenges, including security, economic cooperation, and geopolitical stability.

Focus on security and Ukraine

During the summit, the Canadian prime minister is expected to engage in discussions on:

• Strengthening collective security
• Enhancing transatlantic defence cooperation
• Advancing continued support for Ukraine

Officials say the visit reflects Canada’s growing role in international security partnerships.

Promoting investment and economic growth

Carney will also use the platform to position Canada as a leading destination for global investment. Key sectors highlighted include:

• Critical minerals
• Energy and natural resources
• Defence and aerospace
• Advanced technologies

The government has outlined an ambitious plan to attract up to $1 trillion in investment over the next five years.

Expanding Canada–EU partnership

Canada’s relationship with Europe has deepened in recent years, including new agreements with the European Union focused on trade, security, and technological cooperation.

Canada also recently became the first non-European country to join the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative, opening new opportunities for Canadian industries and businesses.

First visit to Armenia in nearly a decade

The trip to Armenia underscores Canada’s broader diplomatic outreach and commitment to diversifying international partnerships in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Courtesy: Prime Minister of Canada