Türkiye and Canada agreed to launch exploratory discussions towards a free trade agreement, according to a joint statement from the countries' trade ministries on Tuesday.

Turkish and Canadian trade ministers, Omer Bolat and Maninder Sidhu, met to advance the strong and growing economic partnership between the two countries, according to the statement.

It noted: "Building on the recent call between Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening the Canada-Türkiye trade and investment relationship."

The statement said the step is reflecting the ambition of both countries to unlock the full potential of the commercial partnership.

According to the statement, the ministers welcomed the recent expansion of the Air Transport Agreement, which strengthens connectivity between the two countries and opens new opportunities for travellers, businesses and exporters.

"Enhanced air links will support stronger commercial ties and bring our economies closer together," it noted.