Minister Bayraktar Participates in PDAC 2026 Congress in Canada
On the second day of his visit to Canada, Minister Alparslan Bayraktar attended the prestigious PDAC 2026 Congress, recognised as the world’s largest international event in the mineral exploration and mining sector, organised by the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC).
Turkey’s Vision for Energy and Mining
Strategic Role of Mining
During the special session titled “The Strategic Role and Future of Mining in the Economy,” Minister Bayraktar shared Turkey’s vision for energy and mining, emphasising the crucial role of domestic and renewable resources in reducing dependency on imports. He reiterated Turkey’s commitment to becoming a carbon-neutral economy by 2053 and announced a $20 billion investment in energy efficiency over the next seven years, aiming to reduce primary energy consumption by 15%.
Expanding Nuclear Energy Cooperation
Minister Bayraktar outlined Turkey’s aim to add nuclear power to its energy portfolio, targeting a capacity of at least 20 gigawatts by 2050. This plan includes both large-scale nuclear power plants and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), with collaboration opportunities identified between Turkey and Canada in the nuclear sector.
Mining’s Role in Energy Transition
Highlighting the significance of mining, Bayraktar noted, “The global energy transition cannot succeed without mining and minerals.” He invited Canadian companies to invest in Turkey and encouraged Turkish firms, including Turkey Petroleum Corporation and Eti Maden, to explore opportunities in Canada. The minister stressed the importance of forming partnerships to bring expertise and innovation to Turkey’s mining industry.
Investments and International Partnerships
LNG Infrastructure and European Markets
Minister Bayraktar discussed ongoing investments in liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure in Turkey. He highlighted that Turkey possesses the necessary facilities to re-gasify Canadian LNG and deliver it to European markets, mentioning active discussions with LNG suppliers about leveraging Turkey’s interconnections with Europe.
Legal Reforms and Investment Climate
To enhance the investment environment, Bayraktar pointed out recent legislative reforms in Turkey that streamline permit procedures for mining investments. He expressed confidence that these changes will accelerate foreign investment in the sector.
Roundtable and Bilateral Meetings
Minister Bayraktar attended the Canada-Turkey Energy and Mining Roundtable in Toronto, engaging with senior executives from international energy and mining companies. He also met with prominent Canadian officials, including Oakville West MP Shima Acan, Alberta’s Minister of Energy and Minerals Brian Jean, and Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mining Stephen Lecce.
Global Collaboration Opportunities
Bayraktar underscored the positive relations between Turkey and Canada, noting the potential to increase bilateral trade and pursue joint ventures in third countries. He highlighted that Turkish state-owned companies are already active internationally in petroleum and mining sectors.
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