Why the UK Should Rejoin the European Union and Create a New Western Trading Bloc: The Triangle of Trust in Action

As the world hurtles toward increasing economic and geopolitical uncertainty, there’s a growing case for the UK to reconsider its estranged relationship with the European Union (EU). Rejoining the bloc could do more than heal old wounds; it could forge a transformative new Western trade alliance – what we’re calling the Triangle of Trust. This partnership would connect the UK, EU, Canada, and Mexico into a collaborative trade bloc designed to counterbalance global dependencies and U.S. dominance over all of our economies. But what exactly does this Triangle of Trust entail, and why does it matter now more than ever?

The Idea for the Triangle of Trust Agreement

At its core, the Triangle of Trust Agreement (TOT) proposes a strategic economic partnership that leverages the combined strengths of the EU, UK, Canada, and Mexico. The goal is to create a balanced system of trade and innovation rooted in trust. Trump’s recent provocations to allies could have dangerous consequences for the Western world and has led to an erosion of trust, leaving governments scrambling.  Drawing from Francis Frei’s Trust Triangle framework—emphasizing authenticity, logic, and empathy—this TOT alliance would focus on building genuine relationships, transparent agreements, and shared benefits. The trade bloc would enhance supply chain resilience, and foster environmental collaboration, offering members a way to diversify markets while reducing reliance on the U.S. and China. It could also serve to protect Greenland and Panama’s autonomy, and open trade to other Latin American nations through Mexico’s Pacific Alliance. As the TOT Agreement geographically encircles the United States, it also makes the region safer through unification while protecting European, Mexican and Canadian borders from significant diplomatic tensions recently created by American threats. It would also ensure our countries stay steadfast in our common values, while supporting one another in a green transition. 

This idea is not just economically sound but politically savvy. By tapping into existing trade routes and agreements like CETA (Canada-EU), TCA (EU-UK), and USMCA (U.S.-Mexico-Canada), the Triangle of Trust could seamlessly align with current systems. However, it could introduce enhancements, such as a Sustainability Pact for green trade and an adjustment fund to balance regional disparities. Each country could grow in its regional strengths while ensuring one another can create local hubs for important sectors like pharmaceutical manufacturing. 

Specific Facts and Figures

The combined GDP of the EU, UK, Canada, and Mexico totals approximately $25 trillion, placing it on par with the United States. This economic powerhouse boasts complementary strengths: the EU’s industrial base and technological leadership, the UK’s financial services expertise, Canada’s natural resources and mining capabilities, and Mexico’s agricultural and manufacturing capabilities. Together, these nations could create a trade bloc capable of competing with any global superpower.

Key trade items include agricultural goods from Canada and Mexico, such as wheat, corn, and fresh produce, which align perfectly with the EU’s demand for food imports. In return, the EU can supply advanced machinery and pharmaceuticals, which are essential for both Mexico’s manufacturing sector and Canada’s healthcare system. The UK, with its world-leading financial services, can facilitate investment across the bloc, ensuring smooth capital flows.

Energy trade also represents a major opportunity. Canada’s renewable energy potential, including hydroelectric and wind power, could supply cleaner supply chain options for the bloc including lower carbon intensive steel and aluminum. Meanwhile, Mexico’s growing solar energy sector could be integrated into a broader green energy network, reducing overall reliance on fossil fuels in manufacturing. 

Securing Borders and a Green Energy Transition: 

Greenland has expressed its desire to remain an independent nation, preserving the sovereignty of its 55,000 citizens, 90% of whom are Inuit. While the U.S. has shown financial interest in Greenland, threats of annexation—such as those recently made by Donald Trump—are absurd provocations that deeply undermine international trust. Nations with no shared cultural history or contiguous landmass cannot reasonably expect to force such unions without significant backlash. A former Canadian MP has even suggested that Greenland would be a better fit as part of Canada’s confederation, with territorial payments akin to those received by Nunavut, which is 85% Inuit. Instead of pursuing imperialistic fantasies, the Western world should focus on building a coalition to support Greenland’s autonomy through meaningful economic development and investment from the Triangle of Trust’s trade partners. This collaborative approach would empower Greenland, Mexico, and Canada to play pivotal roles in Europe’s green energy transition, transcending the geographical barrier of the Atlantic. Here’s how:

Greenland and Canada, despite the Atlantic’s divide, could play critical roles in Europe’s green transition:

  1. Hydrogen Production: Canada’s renewable-rich provinces (e.g., Newfoundland and Labrador) are leaders in green hydrogen production. Hydrogen could be shipped to Europe to meet ambitious renewable energy targets. Mexico’s emerging hydrogen industry adds value through solar- and wind-driven production in Baja California and Yucatán.
  1. Battery Minerals: Canada and Greenland boast reserves of critical minerals like lithium, nickel, and cobalt. Mexico contributes significant amounts of copper and silver, essential for solar panels and energy storage systems.
  1. Knowledge Sharing: Canada’s expertise in carbon capture and wind energy complements Mexico’s leadership in solar innovation. Joint R&D could drive advancements in grid efficiency and hydrogen technology.
  1. Shipping Improvements: Canada’s Arctic shipping routes, viable due to climate change, could shorten transit times for green energy exports. Mexico’s established Atlantic and Pacific ports further optimize global trade logistics.


The Pros: A Win-Win for All Partners

The benefits of this agreement are as vast as the Atlantic itself. Economically, it diversifies markets and reduces dependence on singular powers, allowing for a secure and resilient supply chain. With the UK’s robust financial and service management capabilities (underused since Brexit), the EU’s economic might, Canada’s resource wealth and Commonwealth connections, and Mexico’s agricultural and manufacturing strengths, the bloc could become a global leader in Green trade and innovation.

Moreover, the alliance offers unparalleled environmental opportunities. Together, members could create the world’s greenest trade corridor, championing renewable energy partnerships, sustainable agriculture, and green tech innovation. Imagine Arctic shipping lanes connecting Europe and Canada, reducing emissions while creating faster routes for goods. Geographically, the UK, Canada, and Scandinavia are natural partners for Greenland, regardless of Trump’s assertion that Greenland should be a part of America (largely for resource extraction which if not done thoughtfully hastens humanity’s decline). Geopolitically, the TOT alliance positions itself as a counterweight to unilateral policies from the U.S. It allows members to collectively challenge exploitative trade practices while promoting shared values of democracy, transparency, and sustainability. While Trump says drill baby drill and the United States becomes the only country besides North Korea to leave the Paris accord, Europe, the UK, Canada, and Mexico can bolster each other’s security and lead the green transition. 

The Cons: Challenges on the Road Ahead

Of course, no great idea comes without its hurdles. Regulatory divergence among member nations remains a significant challenge. Aligning Canada’s supply management systems, the EU’s stringent standards, and the UK’s post-Brexit frameworks could require years of negotiation, but what Trump has made clear is that he wants to bully sovereign nations into giving up important values like moving towards net zero in favour of unchecked American dominance. While some focus on speculative ventures like Mars colonization, pressing global challenges remain.

Political differences among the alliance could also pose a threat. Mexico’s focus on domestic manufacturing, the EU’s commitment to environmental benchmarks, and the UK’s history of resisting centralized control could lead to friction but what is the alternative; kowtowing to an increasingly unhinged American government that is removing democratic safeguards? Public resistance in our Triangle of Trust member states, especially from citizens wary of losing national sovereignty, might slow progress. However, if these member states continue to be confronted with the larger economic and military threats from Trump’s United Confederate States, many nations will desire to move fast.   

Logistical barriers, like aligning infrastructure and creating sustainable supply chains, require considerable investment. Furthermore, balancing trade benefits among members to avoid economic disparities would be critical to maintaining trust within the bloc. However, what is unique about this alignment is that each country has unique capacities and strategic geographic alignment (trade routes) that helps keep the checks and balances. What’s more we share a vision of the world which is based on fostering peace and sustainable economic growth. 

Final Thoughts

While the challenges are real, the opportunity to create a transformative, sustainable, and equitable trade agreement is even greater. The Triangle of Trust isn’t just about economic partnerships; it’s about redefining what a global alliance can achieve when rooted in shared values and mutual respect. If the UK, EU, Canada, and Mexico can overcome their differences and embrace this vision, they might just create a model for the future of international cooperation. And if Greenland or Panama want to join? It would be in their sovereign interest. Who knows – when America sees what is possible through cooperation, they too might decide to work together to achieve a greener future instead of pretending we exist in the 1890s.