German Chancellor Merz Meets Turkey’s Erdogan Amid Key Discussions

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is set to begin his first official visit to Turkey on Wednesday, meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on Thursday. The discussions will centre on pivotal issues such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the potential for peace initiatives in the Middle East, where Turkey has taken on a mediating role.

During the talks, topics such as migration and defence cooperation are also expected to feature prominently. Turkey’s involvement in facilitating the deportation of Syrian nationals who do not possess legal residency in Germany is likely to be a critical point of discussion.

Defence Cooperation and Recent Developments

On the defence front, significant developments were made this week with the signing of an agreement for the delivery of Eurofighter jets to Turkey. These jets are assembled in the United Kingdom as part of a multinational collaboration involving Germany, Italy, and Spain. Consequently, the export deal requires approval from all four nations involved, marking a noteworthy step in bilateral defence ties.

The backdrop to Merz’s visit is complex, with the political climate in Turkey drawing attention. A new arrest warrant has been issued for Turkish opposition leader Ekrem Imamoglu, who has been in custody since March 2024. This situation has raised concerns regarding democratic practices in Turkey. Lars Klingbeil, leader of the Social Democratic Party in Germany, previously described Imamoglu’s detention as a “serious attack” on Turkey’s democracy.

When asked about the possibility of Merz engaging with Turkish opposition politicians during his visit, a government spokesperson indicated that the discussions with Erdogan would take precedence. “I am not aware of any further meetings,” the spokesperson stated.

Broader Implications of the Visit

Merz’s visit represents a significant opportunity for Germany and Turkey to strengthen their bilateral relations, particularly in light of the pressing geopolitical challenges. As both countries navigate their roles in international affairs, the outcome of these discussions could have lasting implications for regional stability.

As the situation in Ukraine remains fluid, Turkey’s unique position as a mediator may prove beneficial for ongoing peace efforts. The focus on migration issues also underscores the broader challenges facing European nations as they contend with the influx of refugees and migrants.

With these discussions on the horizon, the international community will be watching closely to gauge the outcomes of Merz’s meetings in Ankara. The balance between supporting democratic principles and advancing strategic interests will undoubtedly shape the narrative of this significant visit.