Canada and Germany have signed a joint declaration of intent on artificial intelligence, marking another step in Ottawa’s efforts to strengthen international relations as global tensions shift trade priorities.
The agreement was signed by Evan Solomon, Canada’s minister of artificial intelligence and digital innovation, and Karsten Wildberger, Germany’s minister of digital transformation and government improvement, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.
The announcement builds on the Canada-Germany Digital Alliance announced in December and sets the framework for expanded cooperation in AI development, infrastructure and talent.
Both countries also announced the launch of the Sovereign Technology Alliance aimed at strengthening cooperation between trusted partners in advanced technologies and reducing strategic technological dependence.
In a statement, Solomon said the partnership reflects the growing importance of AI to economic security and competitiveness.
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“Artificial intelligence is becoming the foundation of economic stability and national security,” Solomon said. “This is about delivering practical results for our economy and our citizens.”
Under the announcement, Canada and Germany will focus on expanding secure computing infrastructure, accelerating AI research and commercialization, and strengthening talent development.
The agreement comes as Canada continues to pursue deeper ties with countries outside of the United States, with Prime Minister Mark Carney pushing for a strategy focused on multilateral trade.
Carney said Canada must reduce its economic dependence on the US as uncertainty continues over US trade policy and tariff threats under US President Donald Trump.
Trump has warned of rising tariffs on Canadian goods and has threatened economic consequences if Canada deepens certain trade ties, including suggesting a possible 100 percent tariff increase if Canada enters into a major trade deal with China.
Due to existing economic and political tensions, the federal government is expanding relations with Europe, the Middle East and Asia, positioning Canada as the most connected economy in the world.
Germany is Canada’s largest trading partner within the European Union, and the AI agreement reflects a shared interest in reducing barriers and expanding digital trade.
Wildberger said the announcement moves the Canada-Germany Digital Alliance “from vision to implementation.”
“Germany and Canada are united in our belief that responsible AI development and a strong digital environment are essential for long-term economic growth,” he said.
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