Ankara (TDI): German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has thrown his support behind Turkiye’s renewed bid for closer ties with the European Union, even as relations between Brussels and Ankara remain strained over Israel’s war in Gaza.
On his first official visit to Ankara, Merz emphasized that Turkiye remains an indispensable strategic partner for Europe amid growing global instability.
Calling for “a good and deepened partnership” with Turkiye, he signaled Germany’s willingness to help Ankara gain access to EU programs such as the €150 billion “Security Action for Europe” (SAFE) fund.
Turkiye is eligible for such initiatives, but its participation continues to face opposition from several EU states, particularly Greece.
Yet the visit was not without tension. During a joint press conference, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan accused Germany of turning a blind eye to what he described as Israel’s “starvation and genocide” campaign in Gaza.
Merz rejected this accusation, restating Germany’s long-standing support for Israel’s right to self-defense while acknowledging the severe humanitarian toll of the ongoing conflict.
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For Turkiye, redefining its relationship with Germany and the broader EU is seen as a path to strengthening its economy, defense industry, and diplomatic influence.
Ankara views Berlin as a crucial ally in reviving engagement with Europe and securing access to strategic investment and defense cooperation.
Meanwhile, EU policymakers regard Turkiye as an essential partner in managing regional crises; from migration and energy security to the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Merz’s visit highlights the delicate diplomacy now shaping Europe’s relations with Turkiye. Germany is extending a hand of partnership while Turkiye, who has maintained a staunch stance against Israel’s actions in Gaza, did not brush aside its concerns to appease the visiting German chancellor.
“Just as we want the Russia-Ukraine war to end, we also support an end to Israel’s war on Gaza,” Erdogan said. “Türkiye and Germany are two key countries that can join hands to achieve this.”
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