Türkiye and Canada have embarked on a strategic partnership designed to bolster economic and security ties amidst the current geopolitical climate. Announced during Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to Ankara, the agreement signifies a new chapter in the 83-year diplomatic relationship between the two NATO allies. The collaboration focuses on four key areas: trade, investment and innovation; energy and climate cooperation; defence and security; and enhancing government dialogue and people-to-people relations.
Central to the agreement is an emphasis on defence cooperation. Türkiye’s Presidency of Defence Industries and Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at fostering partnerships between their respective defence sectors and identifying new opportunities for collaboration. This move underscores both nations’ commitment to addressing shared security concerns, particularly in regions such as Ukraine, the South Caucasus, and the Middle East, including Gaza.
The strategic partnership also aims to expand economic ties, with a focus on encouraging investment and advancing energy projects. Both countries are set to engage in cooperative efforts related to natural resources and emerging technologies. Through this partnership, Türkiye and Canada reaffirm their dedication to democratic principles, human rights, individual freedoms, and the rule of law.
To ensure ongoing dialogue and cooperation, the two nations will establish an annual Türkiye-Canada Strategic Dialogue. This will be complemented by regular meetings of the Joint Economic and Trade Committee, along with political-military and counterterrorism consultations. The partnership also includes reinforcing cooperation in consular affairs, migration, mutual legal assistance, and extradition, as well as promoting cultural exchanges and strengthening ties between their citizens and diaspora communities.
The foreign ministers of Türkiye and Canada will oversee the execution of a three-year roadmap to translate these commitments into tangible outcomes. This agreement reflects both countries’ aspirations to deepen their economic and security relations while addressing common international challenges and creating new opportunities for businesses, investors, and citizens.