Minister Bayraktar Attends PDAC 2026 in Canada
Minister Alparslan Bayraktar continued his official visit to Canada by participating in the PDAC 2026 Congress, organized by the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada. Recognized as one of the leading global events in the mineral exploration and mining sector, the congress brought together top industry professionals and policymakers.
Strategic Vision for Energy and Mining
Turkey Special Session
During a special session titled “The Strategic Role and Future of Mining in the Economy,” Minister Bayraktar shared Turkey’s vision for energy and mining. He emphasized the country’s efforts to meet increasing energy demand while reducing dependence on imported resources, highlighting the goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2053. Bayraktar underscored the importance of maximizing the use of domestic and renewable energy sources, stating, “We aim to invest around $20 billion in energy efficiency over the next seven years, which will help reduce our primary energy consumption by 15%.”
Nuclear Energy and Bilateral Cooperation
Minister Bayraktar noted Turkey’s intention to expand its energy portfolio to include nuclear power, targeting at least 20 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2050. He stressed the significance of collaborating with Canada in nuclear technology, including both large-scale plants and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
Enhancing Mining Partnerships
Mining for Energy Transition
Highlighting the critical role of mining in the global energy transition, Bayraktar remarked, “Without mining and minerals, neither Turkey nor the world can achieve a successful energy transformation.” He encouraged Canadian companies to invest in Turkey and called for Turkish firms to explore opportunities in Canada, particularly through public entities such as Türkiye Petrolleri and Eti Maden.
LNG Infrastructure and European Markets
Bayraktar also discussed investments in liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, noting that Turkey’s robust network enables the country to act as a conduit for Canadian LNG to reach European markets. He explained, “With our established interconnections, LNG delivered to Turkey can be regasified and transported via pipelines to Europe.”
Meetings and Future Opportunities
Roundtable and Legislative Reforms
Minister Bayraktar participated in the Canada-Turkey Energy and Mining Roundtable in Toronto, engaging with senior executives from international companies. He highlighted recent legislative changes in Turkey aimed at streamlining permit processes and fostering a fair investment environment, which are expected to accelerate foreign investment in the mining sector.
Cooperation in Third Countries
Bayraktar expressed optimism about expanding Turkey-Canada cooperation beyond bilateral trade, suggesting potential joint ventures in third countries, especially in petroleum and mining. He also held bilateral meetings with officials, including Canada’s first Turkish-origin MP, Şima Açan, Alberta’s Minister of Energy and Mines Brian Jean, and Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mining Stephen Lecce.
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