Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is embarking on a two-day visit to Canada, with the aim of bolstering bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation in key areas such as trade, energy, and defense. The visit will kick off in Toronto, where Fidan is slated to tour the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station. This visit underscores Turkey’s interest in leveraging Canada’s nuclear energy expertise to expand its civilian nuclear energy capabilities and strengthen energy security.
In addition to exploring nuclear energy collaborations, Fidan is set to engage with business leaders, academics, and civil society representatives. These discussions are intended to identify opportunities for investment and foster economic collaboration between the two NATO allies. The Turkish foreign minister’s efforts reflect a broader commitment to deepening economic ties and enhancing strategic partnerships with Canada.
Fidan’s itinerary also includes a visit to Ottawa, where he will hold talks with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand. Discussions between the two officials are expected to focus on advancing their countries’ ties towards a strategic partnership, increasing high-level exchanges, and addressing trade barriers. A long-discussed free trade agreement is anticipated to be a key topic during these discussions.
The agenda for Fidan’s visit will also encompass pressing regional and global security issues. Topics such as the Russia–Ukraine war, tensions in the Middle East, and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz are expected to feature prominently. Turkey is likely to emphasize the importance of diplomatic solutions and the need for continued engagement with all relevant parties to address these challenges effectively.
Trade between Turkey and Canada has been on an upward trajectory, supported by growing defense cooperation, increased air connectivity, and the presence of a substantial Turkish diaspora in Canada. The visit by Minister Fidan is seen as a significant step toward furthering these positive trends and solidifying the bonds between the two nations.