German Chancellor Merz Visits Ankara for Key Talks with Erdogan

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Ankara on March 13, 2024, for his first official visit to Turkey. During his trip, he is set to engage in discussions with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on various pressing global issues. The focus of their talks is expected to include the ongoing war in Ukraine and Turkey’s role as a mediator in Middle Eastern peace initiatives.

The agenda for the meeting encompasses critical matters such as migration and defense cooperation. In particular, Turkey’s potential involvement in facilitating the deportation of Syrian migrants lacking legal status in Germany is a significant topic. The relationship between the two nations has implications for regional stability and security, especially as they navigate these complex issues together.

A notable development in their defense collaboration occurred just days before the visit. On March 11, 2024, an agreement was signed for the delivery of Eurofighter jets to Turkey. These aircraft are produced in Britain through a multinational consortium that includes Germany, Italy, and Spain. As part of the agreement, all four nations must consent to any export arrangements, highlighting the intricacies of international defense agreements.

Despite the hopeful agenda, the visit may be overshadowed by political tensions within Turkey. A recent arrest warrant was issued for prominent opposition leader Ekrem İmamoğlu, who has been in custody since March. The detention has drawn criticism from various international observers, including Lars Klingbeil, leader of the Social Democratic Party in Germany, who labeled it a “serious attack” on Turkey’s democracy.

When questioned about the possibility of Chancellor Merz meeting with opposition figures during his trip, a government spokesman stated that discussions with President Erdogan would take precedence. “I am not aware of any further meetings,” he said, indicating a focus on strengthening ties between Germany and Turkey.

The outcome of this visit remains to be seen, but it marks a significant step in Chancellor Merz’s diplomatic engagement with Turkey. As both nations grapple with issues that have far-reaching consequences, the discussions in Ankara are poised to shape future relations.