October 30, 2026 – Montréal, Québec– National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, participated in the Canada-European Union (EU) Summit alongside Prime Minister Mark Carney in Montréal on October 29 and 30. The Summit provided an opportunity to deepen Canada-EU defence and security cooperation, strengthen transatlantic partnerships, and advance shared priorities in defence industrial capacity and military readiness.
During the Summit, Minister McGuinty had an opportunity to speak with Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission. They discussed opportunities to strengthen Canada-EU defence and security cooperation in response to evolving security challenges.
Minister McGuinty also held a bilateral meeting with Andrius Kubilius, European Commissioner for Defence and Space, to discuss Canada-EU defence cooperation, and opportunities to strengthen defence industrial ties. The Minister showcased Canadian defence industrial capabilities through visits to Canadian defence companies CAE Inc. and Galvion – the latter having recently signed a five-year framework contract with Latvia, valued at up to €27.8 million, to supply integrated head systems and ballistic helmets to the Latvian National Armed Forces. This contract was enabled through the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative. Canada’s participation in SAFE creates new opportunities for Canadian and European defence industries to work together, strengthen transatlantic supply chains and support Europe’s defence readiness.
In an increasingly hostile global security environment, Canada is working to strengthen its defence industrial capacity and create new opportunities for Canadian companies to partner with European counterparts. Through continued engagement with European partners, Canada is advancing defence cooperation and contributing to security across the Euro-Atlantic region.
Quotes
“A stronger Canada means a stronger defence industry. When Canadian companies compete and win internationally, they create good jobs at home, strengthen our industrial capacity and help our Allies meet their security needs. As Canada and Europe deepen our defence cooperation, we’re creating new opportunities for Canadian innovation and expertise to contribute to our collective security and readiness.”
The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence
Quick facts
Canada and the EU are strengthening defence and security cooperation, including through collaboration on defence capabilities, support for Ukraine and efforts to address shared security priorities.
The Canada-EU Security and Defence Partnership, signed in June 2025, established a framework for deeper cooperation on shared defence and security priorities and enabled Canada’s participation in the SAFE initiative.
The Galvion contract with Latvia is an early and tangible result of Canada’s participation in SAFE. This contract directly contributes to the increased security of a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) ally on Europe’s eastern flank.