German Chancellor Merz Visits Turkey for Key Talks with Erdogan

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is set to make his inaugural visit to Turkey on Wednesday, where he will meet with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday. This visit marks a significant diplomatic engagement as both leaders aim to address pressing issues, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and peace initiatives in the Middle East. Turkey’s role as a mediator in these conflicts is expected to be a focal point of the discussions.

Key Issues on the Agenda

During the talks in Ankara, several critical topics will likely be addressed. Migration and defence cooperation are at the forefront of the agenda. Turkey has the potential to assist in the deportation of Syrian nationals who do not possess legal rights to remain in Germany. This aspect of the dialogue underscores the complex dynamics surrounding migration in Europe, particularly amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis linked to the Syrian conflict.

In a related development, a significant announcement was made on Monday concerning the defence sector. An agreement was signed for the delivery of Eurofighter jets to Turkey. These jets are assembled in the United Kingdom as part of a multinational consortium that includes Germany, Italy, and Spain. Any export deal requires approval from all four participating nations, highlighting the collaborative nature of the project.

Political Context and Opposition Concerns

The visit may be overshadowed by recent political tensions in Turkey. A new arrest warrant has been issued for opposition leader Ekrem İmamoğlu, who has been in custody since March 2023. This detention has raised concerns about the state of democracy in Turkey, with Social Democratic leader Lars Klingbeil describing it as a “serious attack” on democratic principles.

When questioned about the possibility of Chancellor Merz meeting with opposition figures during his trip, a government spokesperson indicated that the primary focus would remain on discussions with Erdogan. “I am not aware of any further meetings,” the spokesperson stated, emphasizing the centrality of the Erdogan-Merz talks.

As the visit approaches, both leaders are under pressure to address these pressing issues while navigating the intricate political landscape that shapes Turkey’s relations with Germany and the broader European community.