WELLINGTON, 18 September 2026 (Ghufran): New Zealand has said it has not held any discussions with the European Union about becoming an associate member, following the bloc’s proposal to consider closer ties with Canada. A spokesperson for New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said there had been no talks with the EU regarding associate membership. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently said she wanted to open the door for Canada to become the EU’s first associate member as part of efforts to strengthen ties among allies. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said Australia and New Zealand could also deepen their relations with the EU in the future. Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell also said Australia was supportive of Canada’s efforts to seek closer ties with the EU.