Turnbull, Trudeau discuss possible free-trade deal

Malcolm Turnbull and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau discussed trade and multiculturalism during a phone conversation on Tuesday.

FIle image of Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau Source: AAP

The Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal might be doomed but the leaders of Canada and Australia have vowed to continue the fight for free trade.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull spoke to his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau by phone on Tuesday and agreed to promote an open and progressive international trade agenda.

Both Canada and Australia are part of the TPP now on the backburner after the withdrawal of the US by President Donald Trump.

There has been speculation Australia could seek bilateral deals with TPP partners it doesn't already have agreements with such as Canada, Mexico and Peru.

Mr Turnbull also offered his condolences following the fatal shooting of six Muslim men at a mosque in Quebec City.

The two leaders reiterated the importance of fostering diverse and multicultural societies.