Canada could become the first-ever “associate member” of the European Union under a major new proposal announced Wednesday.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen raised the idea alongside Prime Minister Mark Carney in Strasbourg, as Canada and Europe look to deepen their economic and security relationship.

The exact meaning of associate membership still needs to be worked out, but discussions could include closer cooperation on trade, defence, energy, critical minerals and technology.

Carney has previously said Canada is not seeking full EU membership, but instead a unique partnership with Europe.

The two sides are expected to continue discussions ahead of the next Canada-EU Summit in October.