Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has welcomed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to Ankara for a significant bilateral meeting aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Türkiye and Canada. This marks Carney’s inaugural visit to Türkiye, underlining both nations’ commitment to expanding collaboration across various sectors.
Over the course of the two-day visit, the leaders are set to sign agreements that will pave the way for a strategic partnership. Key areas of focus include energy, nuclear power, sustainable mining, defence, aerospace, and advanced technologies. Additionally, discussions are underway for a potential free trade agreement, building on pledges made during the NATO summit.
One notable development is Türkiye’s decision to join Canada’s Defence, Security and Resilience Bank as a founding member, which signifies an elevation in defence and security cooperation between the two countries. Economic ties have been on an upward trajectory, with bilateral trade increasing by nearly 50% over the past five years. Both governments are keen to harness further opportunities, particularly in sectors like energy, critical minerals, and advanced technology.
Türkiye is keen on exploring international partnerships for its planned second and third nuclear power plants, presenting Canadian companies with potential involvement in nuclear energy projects and related infrastructure. Meanwhile, Canada exports goods such as lentils, aerospace equipment, optical instruments, and electronics to Türkiye, while importing Turkish iron and steel, machinery, and a variety of fruits.
Prime Minister Carney’s visit is part of Canada’s broader strategy to diversify its trade partnerships and lessen its reliance on the United States. For Türkiye, enhanced engagement with Canada promises increased investment, expanded exports, and bolstered industrial cooperation.
This visit is a pivotal step in cementing closer Türkiye-Canada relations, as both nations aim to convert growing diplomatic engagement into tangible trade and investment opportunities.