Canada has signed a wide-ranging bilateral agreement on the mutual protection of classified information with Greece.

The General Security of Information Agreement (GSOIA), signed on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, in Athens, establishes a legal framework for Canada and Greece to share classified information, defence intelligence, and technical data on weapons systems.

The treaty was announced jointly by Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand and Joël Lightbound, Canada's Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement. Officials say the bilateral pact is designed to deepen cooperation between the two NATO allies.

“At a time of growing global uncertainty, trusted partnerships are more important than ever,” Mr. Lightbound said in a statement, adding that the framework will help Canadian businesses compete for foreign defense contracts.

For Ottawa, the deal represents a targeted effort to expand its footprint in the Mediterranean. As maritime nations, Canada and Greece have found common ground on coastal defense, naval intelligence, and the protection of critical undersea infrastructure. Once fully ratified, the agreement will permit authorized private contractors and government institutions in both countries to securely exchange tactical information regarding maritime situational awareness and transnational threats.

Ms. Anand noted that this agreement opens new avenues for collaboration in sectors that matter to both countries - like aerospace and advanced technologies.

The formal signing ceremony in Athens was attended by Canada’s Ambassador to Greece, Sonya Thissen, alongside Greek defense officials, including National Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and Major General Emmanouil Chatzis.

The deal comes amid a broader push by the Canadian government to modernise its military procurement strategy and strengthen institutional ties with like-minded European Union partners. Stephen Fuhr, Canada's Secretary of State for Defence Procurement, noted that the agreement makes it possible for government and industry in the two countries to communicate and co-operate securely on a wide range of bilateral defence priorities.
​
_____
HCRI; Notes from PSPC

The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney
Prime Minister of Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
Sent via email

Dear Prime Minister Carney,

​The Hellenic Canadian Research Institute writes to express its deep concern regarding your upcoming visit to Turkey from October 21 to 23, 2026, and the stated intention to “elevate” the Canada–Turkey partnership in various sectors, including plans to deepen cooperation in defence and security.​

While constructive diplomacy and balanced trade agreements remain essential to Canada’s international engagement - particularly as global trade dynamics continue to evolve under this current Trump administration - we must firmly oppose any effort to expand cooperation with Turkey in the defence and security sector, given the country’s troubling human‑rights record, increasingly aggressive foreign policy, and longstanding inconsistencies in its behaviour as an ally.

Throughout 2026, we have observed a very concerning trend in Canadian government communications repeatedly asserting that Turkey is an “important strategic ally” to Canada and the West. This shift in language appears sudden and historically unfounded, lacking any historical or contemporary basis that would justify such a designation. We believe it is essential to address this narrative before it becomes accepted as fact.

Turkey has not historically acted as an important strategic ally to Canada or to her other Western partners. Rather than aligning with shared priorities or collective security, Turkey has consistently pursued its own interests, even at moments of profound global consequence. During the First World War, the Ottoman Empire joined the Central Powers against the Allied forces, and over 30 Newfoundlanders were killed in direct engagements with Turkish troops during the Gallipoli campaign. In the Second World War, Turkey remained strictly neutral for nearly the entire conflict and signed a friendship agreement with Nazi Germany on June 18, 1941, at a moment when Canada and its allies were fighting for the survival of Europe.

More recently, Turkey’s conduct has continued to diverge from the principles and commitments expected of a reliable partner. Its ambivalent posture during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, its transactional approach to NATO obligations, and its permissive environment during the rise of ISIS all demonstrate a pattern of selective engagement rather than genuine alliance. Turkey’s political support and hosting of Hamas-affiliated figures, coupled with its expanding channels of communication with Hezbollah, undermine its alignment with the security priorities of Canada and the West. At home, Turkey has presided over a severe deterioration in human‑rights protections, including the repression of political opposition, widespread restrictions on media and civil society, and the erosion of judicial independence.

Mr. Prime Minister, looking specifically at the defence and security sector, we urge you to consider the following critical issues that directly contradict the notion of Turkey as an important strategic ally to Canada and the West:

• Cyprus: Turkey maintains an over five-decade illegal military occupation involving demographic engineering and property exploitation. Canada's peacekeeping mission there resulted in the deaths of 28 Canadian soldiers as a direct consequence of Turkey's aggression and continued occupation of the island.
• Greece: Turkey engages in confrontational behaviour toward Greece, including airspace violations, naval incidents, and sovereignty challenges in the Aegean Sea, undermining regional and NATO stability.
• Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh): Turkey diverted Canadian-made drone technology to Azerbaijan during the 2020 conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), breaching end-use assurances with Canada. This enabled operations leading to the ethnic cleansing of the Armenian population.
• Exploiting Geopolitical Distraction: Capitalizing on the global distraction of the October 7 war between Israel and Hamas, Turkey intensified airstrikes against civilian infrastructure and agricultural sites in Kurdish areas of Iraq and Syria.
• Syria: Turkey's military occupation and establishment of a northern Syria "buffer zone" has caused large-scale displacement of Kurdish communities, systemic looting, and demographic engineering.
• Human Rights: International watchdogs document persistent repression of ethnic and other minorities, the erosion of judicial independence, and systemic state-enabled discrimination.

Canada’s international engagement must be guided by principle, consistency, and respect for international law. Elevating defence and security cooperation with Turkey would contradict these commitments, risking entangling Canada in actions that undermine our global credibility.​

We urge you to reconsider any defence and security‑related engagement during your visit and to ensure that Canada’s partnerships abroad reflect our values, our history, and our responsibilities.

Sincerely,

​Hellenic Canadian Research Institute

MIKE FM 105.1, Montreal’s premier independent, family-owned radio station, has officially launched a critical programming fund campaign. This initiative offers listeners, businesses, and community advocates a rare opportunity to invest directly in the independent media that champions local causes every single day.

​Unlike major corporate media conglomerates, MIKE FM 105.1 operates with complete creative freedom. Built from the ground up by a local Montreal family, the station serves as a vital megaphone for dozens of grassroots, non-profit, and community organizations that rely on the airwaves to share their missions, rally volunteers, and raise essential funds.

"Being independent means we answer to our community, not a corporate boardroom," says the MIKE FM team. "Every day, incredible local organizations do extraordinary work in our neighbourhoods. They need a place to tell their stories, ask for help, and reach the people who can make a difference. MIKE FM is that place."

A Legacy of Giving Back

MIKE FM 105.1 has consistently dedicated extensive airtime to public service and community education, producing high-impact, grassroots programming including, but not limited to:

• Senior Advocacy & Awareness: Partnering with the AQDR to protect and celebrate seniors.
• Health & Wellness: Dedicated segments with the Heart & Stroke Foundation and vital expert medical advice.
• Animal Welfare: Practical pet and veterinary guidance featuring Dr. Sébastien Kfoury.
• Public Safety & Justice: Inside looks at law enforcement with Sylvain L’Heureux and collaborative programming with the SPVM.
• Crisis Support & Children’s Care: Amplifying the life-changing work of the Shriners Hospital for Children and The Shield of Athena.

A Vital Platform for Cultural and Academic Voices

Recognizing the station's immense value, the Hellenic Canadian Research Institute strongly calls upon Greek Canadians and philhellenes to support the MIKE FM Programming Fund.

As part of this invaluable partnership, the Hellenic Canadian Research Institute is proudly given a dedicated broadcasting platform every Sunday at 5:00 PM (Montreal). This weekly program is exceptionally well-received by older Greek Canadians, providing them with a rare and highly valued opportunity to hear comprehensive, in-depth analyses of critical Greek historical, political, and national issues in the Greek language. By funding MIKE FM, supporters are directly preserving this essential educational program for the elders of our community.

Other Greek organizations that have benefitted from the MIKE FM platform includes: Canadian Hellenic Congress, Hellenic Congress of Quebec, The Hellenic Initiative (THI), Magic Mission, the live broadcasting of the Holy Liturgy of the Greek Orthodox Church, Greek News Updates with Ilias Iliopoulos, and much more.
​
The Opportunity to Make a Difference

By contributing to the MIKE FM Programming Fund, donors are not just keeping a radio station on the air; they are securing the future of independent storytelling and ensuring Montreal's grassroots, non-profit, and community organizations retain their loudest, most dedicated voice.

How to Support

Donations can be made directly through the official campaign page MIKE FM Programming Campaign on the fundraising platform Zeffy. If you would like to email or call MIKE FM directly to find out more, you can find their contact information directly on their website here.

During the General Debate of the 81st Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 22 - 26 and 28 September 2026), Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, stated that​ “we are facing a rupture, not a transition,” as she pointed out that “great powers are walking away from global economic cooperation, and dismantling economic integration.”

Coerced by these same powers “to accept what we are offered” along with their disdain of state sovereignty, Canada simply desires a peaceful, prosperous and predictable existence.

It has therefore decided on strategic autonomy “to make our own choices, and to determine our own, sovereign future,” she said.

“We can no longer afford to be overly reliant on any one partner.” She announced that her country is already forming alliances with small states, middle powers, and great powers to address emerging global challenges. The Coalition of the Willing, the Arctic Seven and the Nordic-Baltic Eight are examples of Ottawa’s partnerships in this regard.
​

​She said her Government, having secured over 20 economic and defence partnerships in the past year, is making investments to strengthen “our ability to protect Canada and to contribute to peace and security around the world.”

With current GDP defense spending at two per cent, its goal is to attain the NATO-stipulated five percent by 2035.

“Canada is stepping up and taking greater responsibility for our own defense. We are making the largest defense investments in generations – allocating over 80 billion dollars in last year’s budget,” she stressed.

Recalling the “scourge of antisemitism” which surfaced in the Belleville Synagogue attack in Ontario on the “holiest day of the Jewish calendar” this week, she said, “Canada is an open, pluralistic society with a public square full of robust and civil debate.” As such, "we will continue to speak out against the unacceptable rise in hatred..."
​
_____
UN Summary

Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic, Giorgos Gerapetritis, visited Toronto on September 18 and 19, 2026.

On Friday, September 18, the Minister held meetings with the former Archbishop of Canada, Sotirios, and the new Archbishop of Canada, Apostolos.

Subsequently, Mr. Gerapetritis was the keynote speaker at an event hosted by the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto, titled "The Rise of a New Geopolitical Era."

On Saturday, September 19, Mr. Gerapetritis attended the enthronement ceremony of the new Archbishop of Canada, Apostolos. During his visit, the Minister of Foreign Affairs held meetings with representatives of the Greek Diaspora, as well as of ecclesiastical and business institutions.
​

_____
​MFAHR; GRCTV; MSGAPP

We are writing to formally submit our strong opposition to the proposed Canada-Turkey Free Trade Agreement (FTA) currently under public consultation. We believe that international trade agreements should serve as an extension of Canada's domestic principles and foreign policy commitments. Proceeding with this agreement poses severe risks to our national economic stability, domestic manufacturing sectors, and global standing as a defender of human rights.

Canada must not prioritize short-term commercial gains at the expense of our ethical responsibilities, legal standards, and global humanitarian values. An FTA with Turkey would effectively endorse and economically reward a regime characterized by severe democratic backsliding, international law violations, and systematic domestic repression.

Below, we have meticulously outlined our specific, substantive concerns. These points directly address the critical themes put forward in the government's public consultation framework:

1. Products Originating from the Illegal Turkish Occupation in Northern Cyprus: Any proposed FTA must strictly prohibit the importation of any agricultural products, natural resources, or manufactured goods derived from Turkey’s illegal military occupation of northern Cyprus, including any products that have been integrated into the Turkish supply chain from this region. For over five decades, the Turkish occupational forces have systematically seized Cypriot properties, factories, and agricultural lands. Crucially, these expropriated industries and agricultural sectors are now operated and staffed by tens of thousands of illegal settlers imported from mainland Turkey—a deliberate policy of demographic engineering designed to alter the island's population balance and erase its indigenous character in violation of the Geneva Conventions. Because Canada does not recognize this self-proclaimed entity, allowing goods manufactured, harvested, or processed within these occupied territories to enter the Canadian market under preferential tariffs would violate international law, legitimize forced demographic changes, and make Canada complicit in the economic exploitation of occupied Cypriot territories.
2. Products Originating from the Illegal Turkish Occupation in Northern Syria: Any proposed FTA must strictly prohibit the importation of any agricultural products, natural resources, or manufactured goods derived from Turkey’s illegal military occupation of northern Syria, including any products that have been integrated into the Turkish supply chain from this region. Since 2016, Turkish forces and affiliated militias have systematically seized Syrian properties, factories, and agricultural lands. Most notably, the Turkish military has exploited the region's lucrative olive sector, systematically weaponizing it to meet external market demands alongside other looted industries. Concurrently, Turkey has implemented an aggressive policy of demographic engineering, forcibly replacing the indigenous Kurdish population with non-local Syrian Arab refugees. Allowing goods manufactured, harvested, or processed within these occupied territories to enter the Canadian market under preferential tariffs would violate international law, legitimize forced demographic changes, and make Canada complicit in the economic exploitation of occupied Syrian territories.
3. Complicity in the Ethnic Cleansing of Artsakh: Any proposed FTA must explicitly and unconditionally exclude any weapons, military and non-military components, dual-use technologies, or related machinery in any direct or indirect manner, ensuring that even incidental Canadian components are strictly prohibited from entering the Turkish weapons sector. Canada previously had to suspend and halt drone technology exports to Turkey after the Turkish military illegally diverted Canadian-made drone technology to Azerbaijan during the 2020 Artsakh war. This direct complicity contributed to widespread civilian casualties and laid the groundwork for the ultimate ethnic cleansing and forced displacement of the region's indigenous Armenian population. A trade framework with Turkey must not ignore severe past breaches of end-use assurances that undermine Canada’s arms control integrity, nor must it signal that Canada will prioritize commercial interests over complicity in war crimes.
4. Oppressed Minorities and Underrepresented Groups: The Turkish state actively suppresses ethnic and religious minorities through political disenfranchisement, cultural erasure, and targeted legal persecution. This systemic discrimination directly impacts the Kurdish population, as well as Alevi, Armenian, Greek, Assyrian, Jewish, and Roma communities. Furthermore, women, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities face severe socio-economic disparities across the country.
5. Goods of Export/Import Interest and Sensitivities: Flooding the Canadian market with non-tariff Turkish manufacturing and textiles could create unfair competition for Canadian businesses. Turkey's lower production costs—driven by weaker regulatory standards—threaten local jobs and domestic market stability.
6. Regulatory and Safety: Stripping away necessary regulatory alignment and safety standards risks compromising consumer safety. Canada must not weaken its stringent technical, sanitary, and phytosanitary metrics simply to expedite import clearances.
7. Trade in Services: Opening service sectors to a market with heavily state-influenced enterprises threatens the competitive neutrality of Canadian service providers and limits protection for intellectual property.
8. Labour Rights and Cooperation: Strong independent labor unions face heavy restrictions in Turkey. Canada should not reward or economically integrate with a system where worker safety, collective bargaining, and fair wages are routinely undermined.
9. Environmental Protection and Conservation: Turkey has historically faced domestic criticism regarding environmental compliance and carbon output. Liberalizing trade without carbon-border adjustments risks outsourcing Canadian emissions to a less regulated environment, defeating global conservation efforts.
10. Governance, Anti-Corruption, and Human Rights: This is the most critical area of concern. International watchdogs frequently cite Turkey for severe regressions in the rule of law, freedom of speech, judicial independence, and human rights. Deepening economic ties directly undermines Canada’s commitment to a values-based foreign policy.
    
    

Canada's international trade strategy must prioritize partnerships with nations that mirror our domestic and international commitments to human rights, transparent governance, and rigorous environmental laws. Trade agreements are not merely economic instruments; they are powerful reflections of our national character, ethics, and geopolitical alignments. By entering into an agreement with a nation that routinely violates international norms, suppresses minority populations, and breaches critical defense end-use agreements, Canada risks compromising its own moral authority on the global stage.

For these reasons, we strongly urge the Government of Canada to immediately halt all Free Trade Agreement negotiations with Turkey. We must ensure that our economic relationships never come at the expense of justice, the rule of law, and basic human dignity.

Thank you for considering this submission.

Sincerely,

Hellenic Canadian Research Institute

The NATO Summit in Ankara concluded on Wednesday (8 July 2026). Secretary General Mark Rutte said the message from Ankara was clear: NATO delivers. He explained how defence investment was rising, new capabilities are being delivered, defence industrial production is expanding, and that European Allies and Canada are assuming greater responsibility for their security. "We are rebalancing our security for the better, and that is what NATO 3.0 is all about," he said.

The Secretary General highlighted the significant progress already made towards investing 5% of GDP in defence by 2035, with total defence and security spending already measuring around 4% just one year into the 10-year effort. "Our focus has now shifted decisively from setting targets to delivering results," Mr Rutte said. "That means accelerating production, breaking down barriers, boosting​​ resilience, investing in innovation, and working with partners to maximise cooperation."

The Summit underlined the growing importance of working with industry in strengthening NATO's deterrence and defence. At the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum, governments and industry announced major new commitments, including over EUR 50 billion in new procurement deals. Allies also launched NATO's Drone Edge, a major new initiative that will see USD 40 billion invested in uncrewed systems over the next five years.

Mr Rutte also announced a historic step to enhance NATO’s fuel supply chain, helping ensure Allied forces have the energy supplies they need for warfighting readiness. "We know that this 27-billion-euro investment will modernise our existing fuel storage and distribution infrastructure and support new facilities including pipelines towards the eastern part of the Alliance," he said.

Allies also reaffirmed NATO's unwavering support for Ukraine, pledging to provide at least EUR 70 billion in military equipment, assistance and training for Ukraine this year and again next year. The Secretary General said NATO will continue to ensure Ukraine gets what it needs as Russia continues to wage its brutal war.

The Secretary General highlighted Alliance unity. "Here in Ankara, Allies reaffirmed their ironclad commitment to the collective defence under Article 5, that an attack on one is an attack on all, and we will stand together," said Mr Rutte, "Our unity, solidarity, and collective strength remain the foundation of peace, security, and prosperity."

_____
NATO

The 36th annual NATO Summit commenced in the Turkish capital on Tuesday under a cloud of deep transatlantic friction, but the alliance moved rapidly to project financial and strategic resolve. Driven by demands from the Trump administration for Europe to shoulder its own defence burden, the first day of meetings was dominated by massive defence industry agreements and a restructuring of long-term aid for Ukraine.

Key Leader Statements and Diplomatic Moves

On the margins of the official defence forum, a series of critical statements and bilateral meetings shaped the opening day's true geopolitical agenda. While the formal panel discussions and keynote addresses delivered the expected public diplomacy, the real strategic maneuvering took place behind closed doors and in spontaneous press briefings. These quiet, off-the-record interactions between world leaders and military officials served as the true barometer for current international tensions.

​UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: Donald Trump Reasserts Greenland Demands and Warns Europe

U.S. President Donald Trump immediately injected tension into the summit by taking aim at defence spending and regional sovereignty. Trump publicly stated that he could pull all U.S. troops out of Europe unless Washington is granted control of Greenland. Behind closed doors, Trump further criticized European allies who previously restricted U.S. forces from utilizing regional military bases, demanding unwavering alliance loyalty.

CANADA: Mark Carney Leverages Historic Spending Target to Launch Free Trade Talks

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived at the summit in an unprecedentedly strong position, announcing that Canada has officially met its 2% GDP defence spending target and will continue increasing its military budget.

• Bilateral Gains: Shortly after landing, Carney held a high-profile meeting with President Erdoğan to formally launch bilateral free trade negotiations between Canada and Turkey.
• Submarine Procurement: Carney used the summit momentum to highlight Canada's choice of a German-Norwegian consortium (TKMS) as the preferred bidder for the Royal Canadian Navy's new submarine fleet.
• Defence Banking: Carney held direct talks with President Erdoğan to secure Turkish backing for the Canadian-led Defence, Security and Resilience Bank (DSRB), designed to finance the growth of the allied defence industry.

GREECE: Kyriakos Mitsotakis Champions Stronger European Autonomy

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis pushed a firm message regarding continental self-reliance. Mitsotakis stated, "Greece's position is firm in support of a stronger European defence." He emphasized that Athens remained a steadfast partner that kept its NATO financial obligations even during its internal economic crisis, positioning Greece as a crucial anchor of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.

TURKEY: Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Portrays Turkey as a Strategic Hub

As the summit host, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed leaders to a highly fortified Ankara, leveraging the event to promote Turkey’s domestic defence capabilities. In his statements, Erdoğan expressed strong optimism that the summit would serve as a "catalyst for reinforced solidarity" across the alliance. He successfully pivoted this unity into swift economic wins, securing both the trade talks with Canada and praise from President Trump, who hinted at rolling back past defence sanctions.

The "Big Reveal": Next-Generation Air Power

The summit kicked off with the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum (NSDIF26). At the forum, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte rolled out a series of multinational defence contracts totaling roughly $50 billion (USD). Designed to prove that European nations are actively implementing the strict defence spending targets, Day One yielded several landmark capabilities agreements:

• Surveillance Fleets: According to official NATO News briefs, the alliance finalized the procurement of Swedish-made Saab radar jets, a portion of which will be manufactured in Canada.
• Joint Missile Production: A key commercial agreement highlighted at the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum involves a draft deal to jointly produce ATACMS missiles in Europe, marking the first time these specific short-range ballistic missiles will be manufactured outside the United States.
• Anti-Drone Investment: Secretary General Rutte announced that allies will invest more than $40 billion (USD) over the next five years in anti-drone capabilities to address modern tactical threats on the European continent.

An $80 Billion (USD) Commitment to Ukraine

Securing sustainable support for Ukraine was another primary objective of the alliance on Day One. Leaders finalized a formal defence assistance text for the upcoming cycle:

• Funding Pledge: As outlined in the framework ahead of the Ankara Summit, allied nations pledged $80 billion (USD) in military equipment, training, and assistance for Ukraine throughout 2026.
• Canadian Bilateral Aid: Prime Minister Carney met separately with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday to coordinate specific air defence shipments and long-term logistical aid.

The high-stakes event will continue into Wednesday, with leaders scheduled to transition from informal dinners into the official North Atlantic Council working session to finalize the Ankara Summit Communiqué.

_____
NATO; HCRI

Today, Monday, July 6, 2026, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte previewed the Ankara Summit, explaining that it will focus on delivery. Allies are expected to demonstrate how they are transforming the commitments made at The Hague last year into stronger armed forces, increased defence production, and more capabilities needed to defend the Alliance.

The Secretary General highlighted the progress made by European Allies and Canada in investing 5% of GDP on defence by 2035.  "Here in Ankara, I expect nations to present clear, concrete and credible plans to reach that 5% goal. And the evidence we see so far is impressive," said Mr Rutte, "Just one year into a 10-year project, we see that European Allies and Canada are already investing around 4% of their GDP in defence and security."

The Secretary General set out how NATO Allies are turning the extra cash into capabilities. "We will announce tens of billions in new contracts that will provide the crucial kit we need to deter and defend", said Mr Rutte in Ankara, "This will help grow our economies, spread innovation and support hundreds of thousands of jobs, on both sides of the Atlantic."

Support for Ukraine will also be an important focus of the Summit of Allied Heads of State and Government. "Allies and NATO partners must continue to ensure Ukraine gets what it needs,” said the Secretary General, “And let me be clear, all Allies need to pull their weight, so that our support to Ukraine continues to flow. Because Ukraine’s security is so closely linked with our own."

_____
​NATO

A major geopolitical mismatch is brewing in Canada’s capital, and critics warn it could leave Ottawa completely out of step with its most important ally.

Canada’s initiative to expand defence industrial cooperation with Turkey has collided with a harsh reality in Washington. As Ottawa expands its Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS) to cultivate "mid-power" manufacturing partnerships, a bipartisan legislative push in the United States is actively trying to downgrade relations with Ankara. For Canadian policymakers, this is not some minor policy difference. Ottawa and Washington cannot safely move in opposite directions regarding a state that increasingly puts Western security at risk.
Washington lawmakers have established a clear, multi-pronged position through both a pending bill and a recent congressional hearing evaluating Turkey's democratic backsliding. By proceeding down this path if the U.S. legislation passes, Canada risks creating friction with its most critical security and intelligence partner, potentially jeopardizing bilateral technology sharing and joint defense initiatives.

The strategic rift is driven by the introduction of the Turkey Diplomatic Realignment Act (H.R. 1890). Sponsored by Representatives Brad Schneider (D-IL) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), the bill delivers a scathing indictment of the NATO ally. U.S. lawmakers warn that Turkey’s destabilizing maneuvers in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East pose significant risks to regional stability. By forcing the U.S. State Department to downgrade Turkey’s diplomatic status, the legislation would send a definitive signal: Ankara’s deepening ties with Russia, its domestic authoritarian trajectory, and its anti-Western policy mean it can no longer be trusted as a reliable security partner.

American lawmakers are also continuing their years-long scrutiny of Turkey’s domestic regression with a new high-profile hearing. On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission convened a critical session: "Can Turkey Find Its Way Back to Freedom? Authoritarian Consolidation vs Defense of Turkish Democracy." This ongoing bipartisan focus proves that Congress remains committed to challenging Ankara’s systemic human rights abuses and erosion of democratic norms.

Willful Blindness in Ottawa and Domestic Opposition
​
Canadian officials appear willfully blind to Turkey's aggressive regional posture and systemic internal human rights abuses. At the recent SAHA Defence Expo 2026 in Turkey, Secretary of State for Defence Procurement Stephen Fuhr advocated for an expansion of defence and industrial ties under a proposed Canada-Turkey Defence Initiative. Fuhr identified several key areas for bilateral cooperation, including the co-development of advanced drones and counter-drone systems.

This policy direction has generated immediate domestic opposition. A coalition of Greek-Canadian organizations, advocacy organizations, human rights activists, and concerned citizens formally demanded an immediate suspension of joint defence manufacturing initiatives. Opponents highlighted to Fuhr Turkey’s domestic human rights record, aggressive foreign policy, and previous violations of international export controls. When questioned regarding the political viability of reviving these ties, particularly in light of Canada's previous arms embargoes against Ankara, Fuhr minimized historical friction and noted that Canada remains focused on future strategic partnerships. Furthermore, defence correspondent Cem Devrim Yaylali for Defense News reported that Fuhr indicated past friction had not been raised during diplomatic talks.

The Hellenic Canadian Research Institute explicitly warned Fuhr that this new strategy repeats past failures, pointing to how Canadian military technology was previously diverted by Turkey to Azerbaijan and used in the ethnic cleansing of the Armenian population during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) war.

Reconsidering the Canada-Turkey Defence Initiative

Against this backdrop, Canada’s proposed defence initiative with Turkey appears increasingly unsustainable. The federal government must recognize a fundamental incompatibility: Ottawa cannot realistically co-develop military weapons with a state that American lawmakers are actively moving to diplomatically downgrade. Failing to align Canadian ambitions with Washington’s strategic reality, while dismissing the clear domestic warnings brought directly to Secretary Fuhr, leaves Canada in an untenable position.

Forging ahead with this initiative risks a severe breach of Canada's values-based foreign policy. By locking its defence industry into an unstable partnership with Turkey, Ottawa leaves itself profoundly exposed to complicity in external conflicts. Ultimately, proceeding down this path ensures that Canadian-manufactured weapons and components will once again be deployed in regional wars and tied to human rights violations abroad.

_____
HCRI; GACAN; USCNG; TLHRC; 

​Please read very carefully and take action. See instructions below

The Hellenic Canadian Research Institute issued a statement yesterday and also wrote a formal letter to MP Fuhr regarding Canada’s proposed expansion of defense and industrial cooperation with Turkey, specifically in advanced technologies, ammunition, and drone systems.

Given Turkey's aggressive foreign policy and past instances concerning the diversion of Canadian technology to regional conflicts, we believe this initiative risks compromising stability in the Southeastern Mediterranean. 

We are calling on our network to engage in constructive advocacy to ensure Canada’s defense partnerships align with regional security and global stability. 

Please take two minutes today to forward the message below to the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State for Defence Procurement, to ask him to halt this initiative. 

Together, we can encourage a foreign policy that upholds Canada's commitment to human rights and international balance.

----------

STEP 1) - INSTRUCTIONS:
​
Please carefully follow the below instructions. There is no need to add anything further. Let's keep it short and to the point.

1. Email to: 
   [email protected]
   
   
2. Email Subject Line:
   Regarding the Canada-Turkey Defence Development Initiative
   
   
3. Email Body:
   Copy the text provided below
   
   
4. Your Name and Details:
   Don't forget your name at the very bottom, along with city and province
   
   
5. Optional:
   Cc your local MP if you want 
   
   
6. Email Safety (READ CAREFULLY):
   If you intend on spreading the word via email to multiple addresses, it is safer and always advisable to send email messages via the "BCC" recipient type, as this hides email addresses from those with ill intention. Safety first.  

----------
​
STEP 2) - COPY & SEND BELOW MESSAGE VIA EMAIL:


​The Honourable Stephen Fuhr, MP
Secretary of State (Defence Procurement)
House of Commons
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6 

Dear Secretary of State Fuhr, 

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the Canada-Turkey Defence Development Initiative that you announced during your recent visit to the SAHA Expo 2026 in Turkey. 

Expanding strategic and industrial defence ties with Turkey is a dangerous misstep. Partnering on drones, counter-drone systems, ammunition, and autonomous technologies directly threatens regional stability. Turkey has already proven it cannot be trusted with Canadian technology, having previously violated export controls by diverting drone components to conflicts in Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), Syria, and Libya.

Ankara’s broader foreign policy further disqualifies it as a dependable ally. Turkey continues its illegal occupation of Cyprus, maintains maritime aggression against Greece, and conducts airstrikes in Kurdish territories over the borders in Iraq and Syria. Coupled with its purchase of Russian S-400 missiles and severe domestic human rights abuses, Turkey represents a high-risk partner. 

Canada must prioritize global security and human rights over defense contracts. I urge you to immediately halt this initiative. 

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. 

Sincerely,
<< ADD YOUR NAME >>
<< ADD CITY, PROVINCE >>

----------

The Hellenic Canadian Research Institute is concerned with the recent statements by Canada’s Secretary of State for Defence Procurement, MP Stephen Fuhr. Following his visit to the SAHA Expo 2026 in Turkey, MP Fuhr indicated Canada’s intention to rapidly expand bilateral defence and industrial cooperation, specifically in the areas of drones, counter-drone systems, ammunition production, and autonomous technologies.

​The Hellenic Canadian Research Institute strongly objects to this policy shift, citing Turkey’s persistent expansionist agenda, destabilizing regional activities, and documented history of violating international export controls.

Expanding defence cooperation with an actor that consistently violates international law undermines Canada's commitment to global security and human rights. The Hellenic Canadian Research Institute has issued a formal, private communication to MP Fuhr urging an immediate halt to these plans.

Turkey has a history of unauthorized diversions of Canadian military technology. During the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) conflict, Turkey illegally transferred Canadian-made military equipment to Azerbaijan. This technology was directly deployed against civilian populations, contributing to the subsequent ethnic cleansing of over 100,000 Armenians from their ancestral homeland.

Similar unauthorized diversions of Canadian technology by the Turkish government have also occurred in conflict zones across Syria and Libya. These systemic violations previously forced the Canadian government to suspend military export permits to Turkey between 2019 and 2021.

The Hellenic Canadian Research Institute warns that renewing and expanding this defence partnership overlooks Turkey’s ongoing aggressive foreign policy and human rights record, which includes:

• Sovereignty Violations: The ongoing illegal military occupation of Cyprus and continued irredentist claims against sovereign Greek territory and maritime boundaries in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.
• Support for Extremism: Documented political and logistical support for proscribed terrorist organizations, including Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as various jihadist militant factions in the Middle East.
• Regional Aggression: Continuous military operations and bombardments targeting Kurdish regions in northern Iraq and northern Syria.
• Geopolitical Inconsistency: Attempting to balance relations between Russia and the West during the ongoing war in Ukraine, complicating NATO solidarity.
• Domestic Repression: Widespread human rights abuses, including the systemic imprisonment of political opposition voices, journalists, and dissidents, and the systemic domestic repression of Kurdish citizens.

Given Turkey's ongoing belligerence in the Southeastern Mediterranean and broader region, the Hellenic Canadian Research Institute calls upon the Government of Canada to immediately halt all plans to expand defence and industrial ties with Turkey. The Hellenic Canadian Research Institute further demands rigorous, transparent oversight on all existing export permits to ensure Canadian technology is not utilized to facilitate regional aggression.

Hellenic Canadian Research Institute

Statistics Canada announced that data collection for the 2026 Census starts as of today, Monday, May 4, 2026.

Across the country households and farm businesses will be receiving their census invitation letters in the mail with instructions on how to complete their questionnaires. Each letter includes a unique 16-digit secure access code that allows respondents to access and complete their census questionnaires online at census.gc.ca. The process is easy and secure. 

The Census of Population collects demographic, social and economic information from every household in the country. Meanwhile, the Census of Agriculture collects information about every agricultural operation in Canada. Together, they paint a complete portrait of Canada’s population and agriculture sector, providing high-quality information that helps Canadians make important decisions that affect their families, their communities and their businesses.

The information provided helps plan programs and services in communities across the country that support innovation, employment, transit, education, health care and more.
​
The 2026 Census of Population questions are available in alternate formats and 28 languages for reference purposes. More information on the Census of Population and Census of Agriculture questions can be obtained by visiting the census website at census.gc.ca. If households do not complete a questionnaire, Statistics Canada employees will follow up and help them complete their questionnaire.

According to the Statistics Act, a census must be conducted every five years, and every household and farm operator in Canada must participate. The census is conducted under the authority of the Statistics Act, which guarantees that all information provided is kept strictly confidential. Statistics Canada attaches the highest importance to protecting the confidentiality of the information it collects.

For more information, visit the census website at census.gc.ca. 

The Greek island of Santorini took first place among Canadian travellers in the top "Bucket List Destinations" category, in the Air Canada Vacations "Travellers' Top Picks."

“This recognition is a testament to the incredible charm and beauty that Greece offers to travellers from all over the world,” the organizers noted in their announcement.

As they say, “Santorini offers postcard-like perfection with its whitewashed houses and blue domes hovering above volcanic rocks, and the sun setting on the horizon over the turquoise waters, “painting” the sky with intense hues.”

The awards, held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Air Canada Vacations, allowed participants to vote for their favourite international destinations in 10 categories and share their personal travel experiences, while also winning cash prizes and other travel offers from the airline. “The awards invite everyone to shine a light on some of the world’s hidden gems and make them accessible and exciting for all Canadians,” said Nino Montagnese, Vice President of Air Canada Vacations.

The official event took place on Thursday, September 18, 2025, in Toronto, and during it, the head of the Greek National Tourist Organization North America Service, Konstantinos Harokopos, had the opportunity to answer questions from the organizers regarding the uniqueness of Santorini and Greece in general as top destinations in the world.

The Greek award was received by Mr. Harokopos, in the presence of the Consul General of Greece in Toronto, Ioannis Chatzantonakis.