Canada ‘in need of Turkish expertise’ to strengthen defenses: Carney
Prime Minister Mark Carney calls for closer cooperation with Türkiye in drone technology and defense manufacturing to strengthen Canada's military independence
ISTANBUL (MNTV) – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Friday that his country is looking to Türkiye for advanced defense technology and industrial cooperation as it seeks to strengthen its military capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
His remarks came a day after talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, where defense cooperation was among the areas of mutual interest.
Speaking to reporters, Carney expressed a preference for joint development and manufacturing projects rather than simply purchasing Turkish military equipment.
“I would lean towards the partnership end of the spectrum, where we’re providing complementary technology and we’re building up together,” he said.
Carney acknowledged that Canada could particularly benefit from Türkiye’s experience in developing drones and autonomous military systems.
“Candidly, we’re in a position where we’re more in need of Turkish expertise,” he said, emphasizing Canada’s need to improve its national security capabilities and meet its responsibilities as a NATO member.
The Canadian leader also raised concerns about relying too heavily on individual foreign technology providers for critical defense infrastructure.
Citing interruptions to Ukraine’s access to Starlink satellite services, he warned that dependence on a single company or system could create serious national security vulnerabilities.
Carney said Ottawa would continue enforcing its regulations governing weapons exports and technologies with both civilian and military applications.
He added that Canadian authorities would clarify how these restrictions would apply to potential defense partnerships with Türkiye.
Highlighting Ankara’s growing international importance, Carney described Türkiye as a country that combines a rich historical legacy with advanced technological development.
He also emphasized its strategic position within NATO and its influence beyond the surrounding region.
“Türkiye is a formal partner of Canada in NATO, and one of the most important geostrategic countries, not just in this region but in this world,” he said.
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