Turkey, Canada agree to launch exploratory talks on free trade

ISTANBUL - The trade ministers of Turkey and Canada have ​agreed to launch exploratory discussions ‌ aimed at concluding a free trade agreement, according to a joint ministerial ​statement on Tuesday.

The statement said ​Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat ⁠and Canada's Minister of International ​Trade Maninder Sidhu had met to ​advance the strong and growing economic partnership between the two countries.

"They agreed ​to launch exploratory discussions toward ​a free trade agreement, a step that ‌reflects ⁠the ambition of both countries to unlock the full potential of the commercial partnership," the statement ​said.

It said ​they ⁠identified energy as a promising area for expanded ​cooperation and agreed to explore ​opportunities ⁠in renewable energy, as well as in nuclear energy, including ⁠the ​potential of Canadian CANDU ​technology to support Turkey's diversification goals.

The decision marks the continuation of high-level dialogue between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney, the document notes.

The statement emphasises that the future agreement should fully realise the potential of the trade partnership between the two countries and reflect Ankara and Ottawa’s joint vision for the development of economic relations.

Turkey and Canada are also exploring opportunities to deepen cooperation in the aerospace, defense, security and high-technology sectors. 

To maintain momentum, the parties agreed on reciprocal high-level visits and further expanding contacts between the business communities of both countries.