Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney to Visit Türkiye as Ottawa Seeks to Reduce Dependence on the United States
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to visit Türkiye later this month for talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, as Ottawa seeks to diversify its economic and strategic partnerships and reduce its dependence on the United States, according to Reuters.
The discussions could include negotiations toward a potential free-trade agreement, an initiative reportedly launched on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara in July, as well as expanded cooperation in energy and defense.
The planned visit would mark a rare occasion, as no Canadian prime minister has made a dedicated official visit to Türkiye in more than a decade. Previous meetings between Erdoğan and Canadian leaders have largely taken place during international gatherings, including NATO and G20 summits.
Canada’s efforts to diversify its international partnerships come amid deteriorating trade relations with Washington. Since Canada–U.S. trade negotiations broke down in August, Ottawa has been exploring ways to reduce its reliance on its largest trading partner.
Tensions have been fueled by U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods and President Donald Trump’s controversial remarks about Canada potentially becoming the 51st U.S. state.
Meanwhile, Canada and the European Union are preparing to announce a broader new partnership at a summit scheduled to take place in Montreal on October 29. The initiative could further strengthen Canada’s economic and political ties with Europe as Ottawa seeks alternatives to its traditional dependence on the American market.
Türkiye could also offer Canada opportunities to expand defense cooperation, strengthen energy partnerships and explore new trade routes connecting Europe, the Middle East and other international markets.
Can Canada really do without the United States?
Although Canada can diversify its trade and reduce some of its dependence on Washington, completely replacing the U.S. market would be extremely difficult. The two countries share a deeply integrated economy, extensive supply chains and close geographic and security ties.
Carney’s diplomatic outreach to Türkiye and the European Union therefore appears to reflect a strategy of diversification rather than an immediate attempt to sever economic relations with Washington.
The key question is whether Canada can build strong enough partnerships with Europe, Türkiye and other economies to protect its national interests if trade tensions with the United States continue to escalate.
Source: Reuters