French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced plans for closer bilateral ties during a meeting Sunday on the French territory of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon off the coast of Newfoundland.

The leaders highlighted shared commitments to defense cooperation, trade expansion, energy security, space initiatives, and advanced technologies including artificial intelligence and quantum research. They signed a new General Security of Information Agreement to facilitate classified information sharing and support joint procurement opportunities for Canadian firms.

Bilateral merchandise trade reached $15.2 billion in 2025, with France serving as Canada's third-largest export market in the European Union. The two countries also advanced cooperation on critical minerals, aerospace, and liquefied natural gas exports to Europe.

The encounter occurred amid strained Canada-U.S. relations, including trade disputes and recent U.S. tariff measures. Carney and Macron emphasized strategic autonomy and resilience against external pressures without naming specific actors. The meeting preceded the United Nations General Assembly and followed an EU proposal for Canada to gain associate member status.

Both leaders stressed values such as democracy, rule of law, and free trade. Macron described the partnership as vital for sovereignty and independent decision-making. Carney noted the timing to tighten bonds with Europe and France.

The visit marked the first by a Canadian prime minister to the archipelago and the first French presidential visit since 2014. Discussions also covered support for Ukraine and humanitarian aid to Palestinians.

Additional areas of focus included climate resilience, telecommunications, and potential space infrastructure sharing between the nations' agencies. The agreements build on prior joint statements on quantum science from May.