Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada plans to begin discussions for a "unique alliance" with the European Union — but not membership — as he gears up to address the European Parliament this week.

"We're not looking to become a member of the European Union," Carney said Sunday evening on the red carpet of the Toronto International Film Festival. He attended the festival shortly after giving a speech to kick off the two-day Canada Investment Summit, which begins Monday.

"What we are looking — and will begin discussions for — [is] a unique alliance with the European Union. We share the same values, we have the same priorities and we have very complementary strengths."

Carney's comments come after the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday that Carney has been pushing to bolster Canada's relationship with Europe's 27-nation bloc, and tasked his team to identify the most ambitious possibilities short of full membership.

The Journal further reported that Carney suggested Canada take on a new title of "associate member."

Source: CBC News