Ottawa, June 9 -- Canada and Turkiye have agreed to begin exploratory discussions on a potential free trade agreement (FTA), marking a significant step in efforts to deepen trade, investment and economic cooperation between the two countries.

The announcement followed a meeting between Canada's Minister of International Trade, Maninder Sidhu, and Turkiye's trade minister, who reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral economic ties, according to a joint statement released on Sunday.

The ministers also welcomed the recent expansion of the air transport agreement between the two countries, saying improved connectivity would support business activity, tourism and exports.

Beyond trade, the two sides identified energy as a key area...