Carney signs Turkey pact with 50% nuclear deal odds

Prime Minister Mark Carney signed a strategic partnership with Turkey on Friday. The deal includes a potential agreement for Canadian nuclear technology. Carney told reporters there are good chances the engineering firm AtkinsRealis will be selected to help build two power plants in Turkey.

The signing took place near the end of Carney's visit to the country. He used the event to defend his government's balance between trade and human rights. Carney argued that few nations match Canada's standards. He stated that engagement in these partnerships does not mean approval.

Human rights groups have long criticized the government of President Recep Erdogan. Complaints intensified this month after Turkish authorities carried out high-profile operations. Critics say these moves aimed to silence opposition voices, suppress independent journalism, and restrict marginalized groups. Carney described Canada's approach as values-based realism.

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand raised human rights issues with her Turkish counterpart during meetings on Thursday. Carney confirmed he also discussed these concerns directly with Erdogan. He said he prefers direct and open conversations that are not reported in detail. He noted that the issues were raised in their separate meeting.

The Prime Minister has sought to reduce Canada's reliance on the U.S. market. His diversification strategy has previously targeted Europe, the Indo-Pacific, and Saudi Arabia. Turkey represents another state with a questionable human rights record that his government is engaging with.

Carney also addressed allegations that Canada interfered in upcoming U.S. midterm elections. The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa released a fact sheet on Thursday accusing Canadian leaders of meddling before the Nov. 3 vote. Carney said there is no merit to the claims. He expressed disappointment that the U.S. envoy suggested Canada was interfering in the democratic process.

The Prime Minister said Canada maintains a deep diplomatic presence in the United States. He emphasized that the country is careful to avoid being seen as influencing the American democratic process. Carney concluded his remarks by reaffirming the direct nature of his communication with world leaders.