Turkey’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, is embarking on a significant two-day visit to Canada, aiming to enhance bilateral ties across various sectors, including trade, energy, and defense. The visit signifies Ankara’s commitment to fostering a stronger relationship with Canada, a fellow NATO member. Fidan’s itinerary includes a tour of the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station in Toronto, highlighting Turkey’s interest in tapping into Canada’s nuclear energy expertise to bolster its civilian nuclear energy capabilities and overall energy security.
In addition to exploring energy cooperation, Fidan’s agenda involves engaging with Canadian business leaders, academics, and civil society representatives. These meetings aim to identify and create new opportunities for investment and economic collaboration between the two countries, potentially opening doors for increased trade and mutual growth.
Fidan’s visit will also take him to Ottawa, where he is scheduled to meet with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand. The two officials are expected to discuss strategies for elevating their countries’ relations to a strategic partnership level. Key topics on the table include increasing the frequency of high-level exchanges and addressing trade barriers, with a particular focus on progressing towards a long-discussed free trade agreement.
The discussions between Fidan and Anand will not only focus on bilateral issues but will also include regional and global security topics. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, tensions in the Middle East, and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz are anticipated to be central to their talks. Turkey is expected to advocate for diplomatic resolutions and the importance of maintaining dialogue with all involved parties.
Trade between Turkey and Canada has been on an upward trajectory, buoyed by growing defense cooperation, enhanced air connectivity, and the presence of a substantial Turkish diaspora in Canada. Fidan’s visit underscores the potential for further strengthening these ties, with both nations standing to benefit from deepened cooperation and shared strategic interests.