OTTAWA: Prime Minister Mark Carney has defended engaging in trade relationships with countries that do not fully align with Canada’s values and human rights standards. His comments follow criticism surrounding Canada’s new strategic trade and defence partnership agreement signed with the Turkish government. Carney clarified that engaging in cooperation with another nation does not imply approval of all its policies or positions.
“Engagement in those partnerships does not mean approval,” Carney stated. He explained that under a policy of “values-based realism,” Canada moves forward recognizing that not every partner will share all Canadian values. The Prime Minister’s Office noted that Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand raised human rights concerns with Turkish officials during their meetings.
Strengthening ties with Turkey is part of Canada’s broader efforts to diversify its trade portfolio and reduce reliance solely on the U.S. market. Following political discussions in Ankara, the Prime Minister met with business leaders in Istanbul. Carney mentioned there is a good possibility that Canadian engineering firm ‘AtkinsRealis’ could be selected as a partner to construct two nuclear power plants planned in Turkey.
Response to U.S. Allegations
Carney firmly rejected claims by the United States alleging Canadian interference in the upcoming U.S. midterm elections. The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa had released a fact sheet accusing Canadian leaders of meddling ahead of the November 3 vote.
“There is no merit to these claims,” Carney stated, adding that Canada is always very careful not to be seen interfering in the democratic process of any country. He also expressed disappointment over the statements made by the U.S. envoy.
