Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Foreign Minister, is embarking on a two-day visit to Canada aimed at enhancing bilateral relations, boosting trade, and fostering deeper cooperation in the energy and defense sectors. The visit kicks off in Toronto, where Fidan plans to tour the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station. This engagement underscores Ankara’s interest in leveraging Canada’s nuclear energy expertise to bolster its civilian nuclear energy capabilities and broader energy security initiatives.
During his stay, Fidan will engage with business leaders, academics, and civil society members to explore avenues for investment and economic partnerships between Turkey and Canada, both of which are NATO allies. In Ottawa, Fidan is set to meet with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand. Their discussions are anticipated to center on upgrading relations to a strategic partnership level, facilitating more high-level exchanges, and addressing trade barriers, including the prospects of a long-discussed free trade agreement.
Key regional and global security topics are also on the agenda, with a focus on the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict, the volatile situation in the Middle East, and maritime security challenges in the Strait of Hormuz. Turkey is expected to advocate for diplomatic solutions and sustained engagement with all parties involved in these issues.
Trade between Turkey and Canada has been on an upward trajectory, bolstered by enhanced defense cooperation, improved air travel connectivity, and a significant Turkish diaspora residing in Canada. The visit by Turkey’s foreign minister reflects a commitment to building on this momentum and further solidifying the bilateral relationship.