Canada signs Turkey pact, dismisses U.S. election meddling claim

Mark Carney signed a strategic partnership with the government of President Recep Erdogan on Friday. The agreement aims to deepen economic ties between the two nations. Carney stated that Canada must diversify its trading partners to rely less on the United States. He described the government's approach as values-based realism, a policy that accepts not every ally will share Canadian values.

The deal was signed near the end of a trip to Turkey. The partnership comes amid ongoing criticism of Erdogan's government by human rights groups. Critics argue recent Turkish operations have silenced opposition voices and restricted independent journalism. Carney addressed these concerns directly, noting that few countries match Canada's standards. He said, "Engagement in those partnerships does not mean approval."

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand raised human rights issues with her Turkish counterpart on Thursday. When asked if he personally discussed these matters with Erdogan, Carney confirmed they held direct conversations. He preferred these talks to be open rather than detailed in public reports. The Prime Minister's Office statement noted that Anand's meetings focused on these diplomatic balances.

Business discussions in Istanbul formed the second part of the trip. One potential outcome is the sale of Canadian nuclear technology to Turkey. This would support Ankara's climate goals and construction of two new power plants. Carney said there are good chances that Canadian engineering firm AtkinsRealis will be selected as the partner for the project.

Carney also reacted to a formal accusation from the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa. The embassy released a fact sheet on Thursday alleging Canadian interference in the U.S. midterm elections scheduled for Nov. 3. Carney called the claims meritless and expressed disappointment that the U.S. envoy took on the role of making such suggestions. He emphasized that Canada maintains a deep diplomatic presence in the United States and acts carefully to avoid appearing to interfere in American democratic processes.