Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is embarking on a two-day visit to Canada aimed at enhancing bilateral relations, boosting trade, and expanding cooperation in the energy and defense sectors. Kicking off his visit in Toronto, Fidan will tour the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station, showcasing Turkey’s interest in tapping into Canada’s nuclear energy expertise as part of its broader energy security goals.
During his stay, Fidan plans to engage with business leaders, academics, and civil society members to explore avenues for investment and economic collaboration between the two nations, both of which are NATO allies. This visit underscores Ankara’s intention to deepen ties with Canada, particularly in the realm of civilian nuclear energy.
In Ottawa, Fidan will meet with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand for discussions aimed at elevating the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. Key topics will include increasing high-level exchanges and addressing trade impediments, with a significant focus on advancing a long-discussed free trade agreement. The bilateral talks are expected to cover a range of regional and global security concerns, such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Middle Eastern tensions, and maritime security issues in the Strait of Hormuz. Turkey is likely to underscore the importance of diplomatic solutions and ongoing dialogue with all involved parties.
Trade between Turkey and Canada has been on an upward trajectory, driven by growing defense collaborations, enhanced air connectivity, and the presence of a substantial Turkish diaspora in Canada. The visit by Turkey’s foreign minister is seen as a strategic move to further solidify and expand these economic and cultural ties.