Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan hosted Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Ankara for his inaugural bilateral visit to Türkiye, signaling a strengthened diplomatic relationship between the two nations. The meeting aims to bolster cooperation in multiple sectors, including energy, nuclear power, sustainable mining, defense, aerospace, and advanced technologies.
During the two-day visit, Erdoğan and Carney are expected to sign agreements to establish a strategic partnership, further solidifying ties that have seen bilateral trade grow by nearly 50% over the past five years. Both leaders are keen to explore the possibility of a free trade agreement, building on commitments made during the recent NATO summit. Türkiye’s decision to join Canada’s Defence, Security and Resilience Bank as a founding member underscores the deepening collaboration in defense and security.
Economic ties between Türkiye and Canada have become increasingly robust, with opportunities identified in energy, critical minerals, aerospace, and advanced technology sectors. Türkiye is particularly interested in international partnerships for its planned second and third nuclear power plants, offering potential opportunities for Canadian companies to engage in nuclear energy and related infrastructure projects.
Trade between the two countries includes Canadian exports such as lentils, aerospace equipment, optical instruments, and electronics, while Türkiye exports iron and steel, machinery, fresh fruit, and dried fruit to Canada. Carney’s visit is part of Canada’s broader strategy to diversify its international trade partnerships and reduce reliance on the United States. Meanwhile, Türkiye views closer ties with Canada as a means to attract investment, expand exports, and enhance industrial cooperation.
This visit marks a significant step forward in Türkiye-Canada relations, with both nations eager to convert growing diplomatic engagement into tangible trade and investment opportunities. The discussions and potential agreements are expected to lay the groundwork for a more robust partnership, addressing mutual interests and fostering economic growth.