Canada and Turkey formally start exploratory discussions aimed at reaching a free-trade agreement, according to reports from Canadian and international outlets. Canada’s Prime Minister’s Office says both sides establish the initial groundwork, including defining the scope and ambition of the proposed agreement. Global News reports the talks follow an agreement reached last month by Canadian and Turkish trade ministers to begin the exploratory process that could lead to a concluded free-trade agreement. Al-Monitor adds that the start of the talks occurs on the sidelines of a NATO summit, where officials meet to lay the groundwork for the first round of free-trade negotiations.
All sources describe the process as an early-stage, work-planning phase in which teams from both countries will clarify objectives and begin preparations for potential formal negotiations. Al-Monitor also cites trade figures, stating that bilateral trade between Canada and Turkey is $4.3 billion in 2025. The reports do not provide details on timelines, specific sectors, or the expected schedule for negotiations beyond the initial groundwork meetings.
