Türkiye, Canada launch free trade exploratory talks

Exploratory talks launched

Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat met with Canadian Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu on Tuesday to open exploratory discussions toward a comprehensive free trade agreement, according to a joint statement from both ministries. The ministers convened to advance the growing economic partnership between Ankara and Ottawa, setting the stage for formal negotiations to eliminate bilateral trade barriers.

Leadership directive

The initiative follows a recent telephone exchange between President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Mark Carney, during which both leaders directed their cabinets to deepen economic cooperation. “Building on the recent call between Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening the Canada-Türkiye trade and investment relationship,” the statement noted.

Aviation links expanded

The ministers welcomed the recent expansion of the Air Transport Agreement between the two nations, a move expected to strengthen connectivity and facilitate business travel and exports. Enhanced air corridors will support the anticipated growth in bilateral trade by reducing logistical barriers between Turkish and Canadian markets.

The joint announcement comes as both countries seek to diversify their economic partnerships, with officials emphasizing that closer aviation and trade ties will align the North American and Turkish economies more closely. The exploratory talks represent the first formal step toward a potential comprehensive pact covering goods, services, and investment flows.