European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the European Union is opening the door for Canada to become its first 'associate member.' Julia Payne explains what this 'unique alliance' means ▻ ↧ EU's von der Leyen wants Canada to become bloc's first associate me... EU lawmakers gave a standing ovation after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made the proposal and then walked over to embrace Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney, who was in the European Parliament.