Will associate member model be a transformative moment for EU?

The EU is potentially entering a transformative period in its development. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen last week opened the door for Canada to become the bloc’s first associate member.

How significant a moment is this in the history of the EU? And why Canada and why now? The EU was established in 1993 under the Maastricht Treaty. It was the result of the gradual integration of certain European…