Canada signs Turkey pact, rejects U.S. meddling charge

Prime Minister Mark Carney signed a strategic partnership agreement with Turkey on Friday, marking the end of a visit that included high-level talks in Ankara and business meetings in Istanbul. The deal aims to deepen economic ties between the two nations as Ottawa seeks to reduce its reliance on the United States.

The signing occurred amid intensified scrutiny of Turkey's domestic record. Human rights groups have raised concerns about recent operations by the government of President Recep Erdogan, which critics say targeted opposition figures and independent journalists. Carney defended the government's approach as "values-based realism," arguing that Canada should not stop trading with partners that do not share every one of its values.

"Engagement in those partnerships does not mean approval," Carney told reporters on Friday. He noted that few countries in the world match Canada's specific standards, a point he made to justify the balance between trade interests and ethical considerations.

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand discussed human rights concerns with her Turkish counterpart during meetings on Thursday. When asked if he had raised the issues directly with Erdogan, Carney said he prefers direct and open conversations with leaders over public reports. He confirmed that the topics were raised during their meeting but declined to provide specific details.

The visit also featured discussions on energy technology. Carney stated there are "good chances" that Canadian engineering firm AtkinsRealis will be selected to help build two planned nuclear power plants in Turkey. This potential contract aligns with Ankara's climate goals and represents a key commercial opportunity for Canadian firms.

Carney also addressed a formal accusation from the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa, which released a fact sheet on Thursday claiming Canadian leaders were meddling in the U.S. midterm elections scheduled for Nov. 3. The prime minister dismissed the allegation, saying there is no merit to the claims.

"I'm disappointed that their envoy sees that as his role to make these suggestions," Carney said. He emphasized that Canada maintains a deep diplomatic presence in the United States and remains careful to avoid interference in the American democratic process.