President von der Leyen to Deliver a Speech Ahead of EU-Canada Summit at the C.D. Howe Institute

Montreal – October 21, 2026 – The C.D. Howe Institute, in partnership with the Max Bell School of Public Policy, will host European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for a keynote speech on the first day of the EU-Canada Summit.

An invitation-only event, President von der Leyen will speak on EU-Canada relations and her vision for a deeper, more integrated partnership to advance shared economic and strategic interests.

In a world of rising geopolitical tension, trade disputes and fragile supply chains, trusted, reliable partnerships are needed more than ever. The EU and Canada are natural partners, with decades of strong trade and investment ties, shared democratic values and a common commitment to the rule of law. Canada offers energy, critical minerals and natural resources, while the EU brings advanced manufacturing, technology and access to a market of 450 million people. By working together more closely, the EU and Canada can turn shared values into shared prosperity and show that trusted partnerships remain the strongest response to an uncertain world.

Media are welcome to attend for coverage and publication. Media must confirm interest by 5:00 p.m. EDT on Friday, October 23, 2026.

Event details

• Date: Thursday, October 29, 2026
• Time: 9:00 a.m.  – 11:00 a.m. EDT
• Location: Montreal, Quebec

For more information or to RSVP, contact: Raquel Schneider, Communications Officer, C.D. Howe Institute, 647-805 3918, rschneider@cdhowe.org.

The C.D. Howe Institute is an independent not-for-profit research institute whose mission is to raise living standards by fostering economically sound public policies. Widely considered to be Canada’s most influential think tank, the Institute is a trusted source of essential policy intelligence, distinguished by research that is nonpartisan, evidence-based and subject to definitive expert review.

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