G7 recap: Canada, France Expand Cooperation in Defense, AI and Space

Canada and France used the opening of the G7 summit to announce a significant expansion of their strategic partnership, unveiling new initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation across defense, space, artificial intelligence and aerospace. The agreement reflects growing efforts by both countries to deepen collaboration amid rising geopolitical tensions and increasing uncertainty surrounding global security.

Speaking about the new partnership, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the importance of the bilateral relationship in the current international climate. «In a more dangerous and divided world, Canada’s relationship with France is ever more important. We share the same values, and increasingly, the same interests. Ahead of the G7 Leaders’ Summit, President Macron and I are collaborating in artificial intelligence, defence and security, and online safety – and building a more secure and prosperous future on both sides of the Atlantic.»

The announcement was made during Carney’s visit to France before the start of the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains. The agreement is designed to deepen cooperation between the two countries on strategic issues while creating new opportunities for government agencies, military organizations and private-sector partners to work together more closely.

At the center of the partnership is a new framework that will facilitate the exchange of classified information between Canada and France. Officials said the agreement is intended to strengthen cooperation in sensitive sectors while improving coordination between institutions involved in national security, technological development and industrial innovation.

Defense cooperation forms the centerpiece of the new partnership. Canada and France pledged to increase collaboration between their armed forces, defense industries and procurement systems. The agreement is expected to facilitate joint projects, improve interoperability and strengthen coordination on military technologies as both countries seek to modernize their defense capabilities.

Both governments framed the partnership as part of a broader effort to reinforce collective security within NATO. The announcement comes as European allies continue to increase defense spending and military coordination in response to ongoing security concerns across the continent, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Space exploration and satellite technology also feature prominently in the agreement. The two countries committed to expanding cooperation between their national space agencies and private-sector partners. Future projects could involve satellite communications, Earth observation systems and emerging space technologies that support both civilian and defense objectives.

Artificial intelligence emerged as another major focus of the partnership. Canada and France have both invested heavily in AI research and development and are increasingly seeking to shape global standards for emerging technologies. Under the new framework, the countries will explore opportunities for joint research, talent exchanges and technological innovation while promoting responsible AI development.

The aerospace sector is also expected to benefit significantly from the agreement. Canada and France are home to some of the world’s largest aerospace manufacturers and suppliers. Officials said enhanced cooperation could strengthen supply chains, support innovation and create new opportunities for companies operating in both countries.

Beyond security considerations, officials believe the partnership could generate significant economic benefits. Collaboration in aerospace, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies is expected to encourage investment, create jobs and improve competitiveness in industries viewed as essential to future economic growth and technological leadership.

The announcement signals a broader effort by Canada and France to position themselves as closely aligned partners in an increasingly competitive geopolitical environment. Explaining the practical impact of the agreement, Carney said: «What this means is an ability to exchange classified information between our defence, our space, our AI and our aerospace sectors.» By expanding cooperation across defense, space, artificial intelligence and aerospace, both governments are seeking to strengthen their strategic autonomy while reinforcing their role within the Western alliance.