Prime Minister Mark Carney walks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, left, as he arrives at the Bestepe Presidential complex in Ankara, Turkey on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
Carney not worried about closer Turkish ties amid nation’s treatment of LGBTQ+ groups
Oct 23, 2026 | 2:27 AM
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ISTANBUL — Prime Minister Mark Carney says he’s not overly concerned about Canada seeking closer ties with Turkey amid criticism that the country has infringed on LGBTQ+ rights.
Turkish authorities have targeted multiple LGBTQ+ groups and individuals, detaining dozens of activists, breaking into association offices and raiding popular hangouts.
Last month, Ottawa opted against joining Germany, France and others in condemning Turkey’s crackdown on LGBTQ+ organizations.
Carney told reporters in Istanbul that “engagement is not approval” and that Ottawa believes everyone should be able to live freely, safely and with dignity.
