The United Kingdom and Canada have agreed to deepen cooperation in trade, defence and artificial intelligence following talks between British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Liverpool.

The leaders met on Wednesday, September 16, during Carney’s visit to the UK, with discussions focused on strengthening the longstanding relationship between the two countries and expanding cooperation in strategic areas.

Carney announced that Canada had formally applied to join the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), a multinational military coalition focused on security and rapid response. The UK has backed Canada’s participation in the initiative.

The two leaders also discussed defence-industrial cooperation through the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), in which Canada became an observer in July 2026. They further considered cooperation surrounding defence financing and efforts to strengthen the resilience of their respective defence sectors.

On trade and the wider economy, Burnham and Carney emphasised the importance of strengthening economic cooperation between Britain and Canada while also building closer relationships with European partners.

The discussions come shortly after the UK secured full access to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which includes Canada. From September 1, 2026, UK businesses gained access to the full benefits of the trade bloc, including expanded opportunities in Canada. Britain and Canada also continue to operate under their bilateral Trade Continuity Agreement while negotiating an upgraded free trade agreement. (GOV.UK)

Artificial intelligence was another major area of discussion. The leaders agreed on the importance of cooperation on frontier technologies and the safe and responsible development and use of AI.

Their governments also highlighted the need for cooperation between policymakers and technology companies to address emerging AI risks and promote online safety.

The meeting formed part of Carney’s wider European visit aimed at strengthening Canada’s economic, security and defence relationships with European countries. His visit included engagements in Strasbourg and Liverpool as Ottawa seeks to expand partnerships in trade, investment and security.

The UK and Canada have historically maintained close political, economic and security ties. The latest discussions indicate an effort by both governments to expand that cooperation into emerging technologies, defence industries and broader economic partnerships.

The two prime ministers agreed to remain in close contact as they pursue the areas of cooperation discussed during the meeting.