News ReleasePrime Minister's OfficeOctober 23, 2026
Canada and Türkiye set trade talks and expand defence ties
The new partnership sets a date for free trade talks and expands flight access, defence cooperation and energy ties between the two countries.
Summary
Canada and Türkiye launched a three-year strategic partnership during Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to Ankara and Istanbul. It covers trade and investment, defence and security, energy, and closer ties between people in both countries.
- Trade: The first round of talks toward a comprehensive free trade agreement is scheduled for November 30 to December 4, 2026, in Ankara. Canada will also lead a trade mission to Türkiye in 2027.
- Defence and energy: A new defence partnership agreement aims to connect companies in both countries. A joint statement sets out cooperation on liquefied natural gas, civil nuclear and renewable energy, and critical minerals.
- Flights: The expanded air agreement permits up to 21 weekly passenger flights per country and unlimited cargo flights between the countries.
Two-way merchandise trade reached $4.3 billion in 2025. Canada and Türkiye also plan to continue work on climate priorities, including electrification and methane emissions reduction, ahead of COP31, which Türkiye will host.
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Source: Prime Minister of Canada