Canada has formally joined the European Union’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) program, a 150-billion euro defence procurement initiative, Defence Minister David McGuinty announced Saturday at the Munich Security Conference. The agreement, initially announced last summer, allows Canadian companies to collaborate with European counterparts on joint defence projects and access preferential financing terms.
The move comes as Washington’s shifting geopolitical approach places new emphasis on transatlantic security ties. The SAFE program is designed to reduce European reliance on U.S. Military equipment and bolster the continent’s defence industry. As the first non-European nation to participate, Canada’s involvement is seen as a signal of its commitment to diversifying its security partnerships.
Prime Minister Mark Carney initially signaled Canada’s intent to join the program during a visit to Brussels in June 2025, formalizing a security and defence partnership with the European Union. The agreement was finalized in December 2025, with Canada agreeing to a 10-million euro (approximately C$16 million) participation fee. Some observers have questioned whether this fee will generate a commensurate level of investment for the Canadian defence sector, noting that the fee assessed for the United Kingdom is significantly higher.
Minister McGuinty’s participation in the Munich Security Conference also included meetings at the NATO Defence Ministers’ Meeting and the 33rd Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting, according to a statement from the Department of National Defence. The Prime Minister’s office stated that Carney travelled to Munich to reinforce collective security, transatlantic defence readiness, and energy security, as well as to advance cooperation on artificial intelligence, critical supply chains, and support for Ukraine.
The Munich Security Conference, a leading international forum on global security policy, hosted over 60 heads of State and government this year. Carney used the conference to promote Canada as a destination for global investment, particularly in critical minerals, energy, and advanced technologies, aiming to create opportunities for Canadian businesses and workers. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for Canada to focus on “building our defence capabilities – to strengthen our security, create greater prosperity, and reinforce our sovereignty.”
The Canadian government has been actively working to increase defence spending and modernize the Canadian Armed Forces, including the launch of the Defence Investment Agency. The participation in the SAFE Instrument is part of this broader effort to enhance Canada’s security and economic interests.
