In a significant diplomatic development, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has described Turkey as a “close and important partner” of the European Union, signaling a new phase in Ankara–Berlin relations and renewed efforts to improve Turkey–EU cooperation.
During his first official visit to Ankara, Chancellor Merz met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to discuss a wide range of topics including trade, defense, migration control, and regional stability. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to strengthening political and economic collaboration between their nations.
Merz acknowledged Turkey’s strategic importance as a bridge between Europe and Asia — particularly in the context of energy supply routes, regional security, and refugee management. He praised Turkey’s efforts in hosting millions of Syrian refugees and called for greater EU support to help Ankara handle the humanitarian burden.
According to diplomatic sources, the discussions also covered joint defense projects, counter-terrorism cooperation, and post-war reconstruction in Gaza and Ukraine. Germany and Turkey agreed to enhance security coordination and explore new trade opportunities, especially in renewable energy and technology sectors.
However, Merz also noted that while cooperation is growing, there remain differences of opinion — particularly on issues such as human rights, freedom of the press, and Ankara’s EU accession process. Still, both sides reaffirmed that constructive dialogue is the best way forward.
In a joint press statement, Chancellor Merz said:
“Turkey is a close and valuable partner for Germany and for Europe. Our cooperation is essential for regional peace, economic growth, and stability.”
President Erdoğan welcomed Merz’s remarks, stating that Turkey is ready to open a new chapter in relations with Germany and the European Union based on mutual respect and shared interests.
Political analysts view this visit as a positive shift in European diplomacy toward Turkey, after years of strained relations over migration policies and democratic reforms. Experts believe that closer ties with Germany — the EU’s largest economy — could re-energize Turkey’s long-stalled EU membership talks and strengthen its economic integration with Europe.
This meeting marks one of the most important diplomatic milestones between the two countries in recent years, and it could pave the way for greater European engagement with Turkey on global and regional issues.