Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will embark on a two-day visit to Canada, aiming to bolster the relationship between the two nations through discussions on trade, energy, and defense collaboration. The trip kicks off in Toronto, where Fidan plans to visit the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station. This visit highlights Turkey’s interest in leveraging Canada’s expertise in nuclear energy, as Ankara looks to enhance its civilian nuclear capabilities and overall energy security.
In addition to his focus on energy, Fidan’s itinerary includes meetings with Canadian business leaders, academics, and members of civil society. These discussions are set to explore avenues for investment and economic cooperation between Turkey and Canada, both of which are NATO allies. The meetings will aim to identify new opportunities to strengthen economic ties and foster collaboration across various sectors.
While in Ottawa, Fidan is scheduled to engage in talks with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand. The agenda is expected to revolve around elevating the countries’ relationship to a strategic partnership level. Key topics will include increasing high-level exchanges and addressing existing trade barriers, including efforts to finalize a long-standing free trade agreement. The discussions will also touch upon regional and global security issues, such as the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict, tensions in the Middle East, and maintaining maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.
Turkey is likely to stress the importance of diplomatic resolutions and ongoing dialogue with all involved parties in these security matters. The growing trade relationship between Turkey and Canada is underpinned by expanding defense ties, improved air connectivity, and the presence of a significant Turkish diaspora within Canada. As both countries seek to enhance their partnership, this visit may set the stage for further collaborations in various fields.