On Friday, Prime Minister Mark Carney defended his administration’s strategy of reconciling trade and human rights, stating that only a handful of nations worldwide can meet Canada’s criteria.
These comments came towards the conclusion of his visit to Turkey, where he formalized a strategic partnership with President Recep Erdogan’s government, which has been under continuous scrutiny from human rights advocates.
Concerns heightened this month as the Turkish government undertook several notable actions aimed at stifling dissent, curbing independent media, and marginalizing various groups.
Previously, Carney has articulated that Canada seeks a values-driven realism in its foreign relations, acknowledging that not all allies will align perfectly with Canadian principles.
During his visit to Turkey, Prime Minister Mark Carney indicated that while he has not met with human rights organizations, he did address the issue, noting that there are ‘very few countries’ that uphold ‘Canada’s standards.’
“Engagement in such partnerships does not equate to endorsement,” Carney stated on Friday.
“Only a select few nations in this world possess the standards that Canada has.”
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand discussed human rights with her Turkish counterpart during meetings held on Thursday.
When journalists inquired on Friday if he addressed concerns with Erdogan during their individual meeting, Carney avoided a direct response.
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a new strategic trade and defence partnership between Canada and Turkey, as Ottawa continues its drive to tighten relations with other middle powers and fellow NATO members.
“My strategy on these matters is to engage in direct discussions with leaders,” Carney remarked. “I find these conversations to be more productive when they are candid and not disclosed in detail afterward, but we have indeed brought these topics up.”
Concerns regarding the authoritarian tendencies of the Turkish government have somewhat overshadowed Carney’s efforts to enhance trade relations.
The prime minister aims to reduce Canada’s reliance on the U.S. market and diversify its trading partnerships. So far, much of this initiative has focused on strengthening connections with Europe and countries in the Indo-Pacific, though it has also included nations with questionable human rights records, such as Saudi Arabia.
‘Disappointed’ by U.S. accusations
Following political discussions in Ankara on Thursday, Carney is engaging in various meetings with business leaders in Istanbul.
One of the agreements being explored includes the potential sale of Canadian nuclear technology to Turkey as the Middle Eastern country works toward its climate objectives.
Carney informed reporters that following the signing of the strategic partnership, there are now “good chances” for the Canadian engineering firm AtkinsRealis to be selected as a partner for constructing the two power plants Turkey intends to develop.
Additionally, on Friday, Carney responded more assertively to accusations of Canadian interference in the U.S. midterm elections.
On Thursday, the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa issued a fact sheet, formally accusing Canadian leaders of meddling in the upcoming Nov. 3 elections.
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“There is no substance to these allegations, and I will call it as such,” Carney expressed. “It is disappointing that their envoy considers it his role to make these assertions.”
The prime minister further stated that Canada maintains a significant diplomatic presence in the United States and engages extensively with American businesses, citizens, and individuals.
“As a nation, Canada is extremely cautious to avoid any appearance of interference in the democratic process,” he added.