Australia and New Zealand might join the European Union as associate members

Australia and New Zealand could soon become associate members of the European Union, following a hint dropped by the European Parliament president. This idea follows a similar proposal for Canada to join the EU in a close partnership. While the plan opens up new doors for cooperation, it has already faced strong reactions from global leaders. United States President Donald Trump threatened to stop trading with the EU after calling the membership offer to Canada laughable. Meanwhile, Canadian officials like Carney have welcomed the proposal for Canada to become the bloc's very first associate member. News outlets across Australia and New Zealand are now tracking how these talks might move forward for the two southern nations.