Canada launches ‘strategic partnership’ with Turkey aimed at securing free-trade deal

ANKARA — Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada is forming a “strategic partnership” with Turkey aimed at securing a free-trade agreement.

Carney arrived in Ankara overnight for the first official bilateral visit by a Canadian prime minister to Turkey.

In a joint statement with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the two leaders said they’re also looking to ratify an “air transportation agreement” which could lead to more direct flights.

The agreement also commits to deeper people-to-people ties with Turkey, something Carney also has sought with the European Union to offer more flexibility to tourists, workers and students.