Canada is exploring the possibility of participating in Eurovision

Canada’s the most recent federal budget has mentionaccording to which the country’s government and the broadcasting company CBC are investigating the possibility of participating in Eurovision.

Canada’s Minister of Finance François-Philippe Champagne says that the request to participate in the visas came from “people who participate”. He did not specify whether he meant specific participating countries or the European Broadcasting Union (EBU).

Champagne gave an interview to the Canadian about it For Global News. His statements have also been detailed in a British newspaper The Guardian.

“I think it’s an opportunity for Canada to shine,” commented Champagne.

Champagne connected the desire for wisdom to the tensions between the United States and Canada. President of the United States Donald Trump has questioned Canada’s sovereignty several times over the past year. He has also imposed sanctions on Canada.

“It’s about protecting our identity,” Champagne said.

“We want to protect our sovereignty, but we also want to help people in the arts and film industry ensure they have the opportunity to shine around the world. We Canadians have a lot to offer.”

Prime Minister of Canada Mark Carney visited France and Britain in March. At the time, he declared that Canada was “the most European non-European country”.

According to two CBC sources, Carney has personally promoted Canada’s participation in Eurovision. In 2022, however, the CBC announced that participating in Eurovision would be too expensive.

CEO of Eurovision Martin Green has announced that discussions between the EBU and the CBC about visa participation are in the “early stages”.

“We are always excited when television companies want to participate in the world’s biggest live music program,” comments Green.

Canada would not be the first country outside of geographical Europe in Eurovision. For example, Australia and Israel participate in visas every year.