ANKARA — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized the need for enhanced defense collaboration between Turkey and Europe during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday in the Turkish capital.
Speaking alongside Merz, Erdogan highlighted that Europe’s changing security environment necessitates addressing defense supply issues and fostering closer cooperation through joint projects. The meeting comes at a critical time as European nations reassess their security strategies amid ongoing global tensions.
EU Membership and the “Ankara Criteria”
Erdogan expressed optimism about Turkey’s path toward European Union membership, stating that Ankara could achieve rapid progress if the bloc acknowledges the determination Turkey has demonstrated. In a pointed reference to the EU’s Copenhagen Criteria—the standards countries must meet to join the union—Erdogan introduced what he called the “Ankara Criteria,” describing them as guidelines that shape Turkey’s engagement with Europe and the broader international community.
Addressing Social Issues in Europe
During his remarks, the Turkish president stressed the importance of combating rising racism, xenophobia, and Islamophobia across Europe. He characterized the Turkish community in Germany as “our shared value and richness,” underscoring the cultural and social ties that bind the two nations.
Germany is home to one of the largest Turkish diaspora communities in the world, with approximately three million people of Turkish origin residing in the country.
Regional Security Concerns
On the situation in Syria, Erdogan acknowledged Germany’s interest in maintaining close coordination with Turkey on the matter. The two countries have been key players in addressing the Syrian crisis, though they have at times pursued different approaches.
Regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Erdogan reiterated Turkey’s commitment to diplomatic solutions, stating that Ankara views continued diplomatic efforts as essential for achieving a “fair and lasting resolution” to the war. Turkey has positioned itself as a mediator in the conflict, maintaining relationships with both Russia and Ukraine.
Significance of the Meeting
The Erdogan-Merz meeting represents an important moment in German-Turkish relations. Chancellor Merz, who leads Germany’s Christian Democratic Union and became chancellor earlier this year, has been working to navigate complex relationships with key European partners and neighboring regions.
The discussions touch on several critical areas of mutual concern, from defense cooperation and EU integration to migration, regional conflicts, and the rights of Turkish communities in Europe. As both nations face evolving security challenges, the emphasis on joint projects and coordination signals a potential warming of bilateral ties.
