Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney Travels to Türkiye for 2026 NATO Summit
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney departed for Ankara on Monday to participate in the 2026 NATO Summit, marking the first visit by a Canadian prime minister to Türkiye in more than a decade.
Carney made a brief stop in Halifax before continuing to the Turkish capital, where leaders from NATO member states and partner nations are gathering for a two-day summit focused on strengthening collective security and defense cooperation.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the visit reflects Canada’s commitment to expanding its defense capabilities through increased military investment and deeper strategic partnerships with allies across the Atlantic.
During the summit, Carney is expected to outline Canada’s progress toward meeting NATO’s defense spending commitments while emphasizing the country’s growing role in European security following its participation in the European Union’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative.
Following the NATO meetings, the Canadian leader will travel to Saudi Arabia for an official visit scheduled from July 8 to 10. The trip will include talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on strengthening bilateral cooperation in energy, defense, investment, and economic development.
The Saudi Arabia visit will also mark the first official trip by a Canadian prime minister to the Kingdom in 26 years, highlighting Ottawa’s renewed focus on expanding diplomatic and economic engagement in the Middle East.
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