Clash in Ankara: Erdogan's outcry meets Merz's diplomatic caution | DW News

Key Concepts

• EU-Turkey Relations: Deepening ties, strained relationship smoothed by pragmatism and realpolitik.
• Eurofighter Jets: Turkey's purchase, boost to NATO security, linked to Ukraine conflict and Euroatlantic security.
• Gaza Conflict: Disagreement between German Chancellor and Turkish President on Israel's actions.
• Turkey's EU Bid: German support for Turkey's accession path, paving the way to Europe.
• Geopolitical Strategic Partner: Turkey's importance to Germany due to defense strength and role in Ukraine negotiations.
• Turkish Diaspora in Germany: Close connection between the two countries.
• Economic Ties: Germany as Turkey's biggest trading partner.
• EU-Turkey Migration Deal (2016): Turkey hosting Syrian refugees in exchange for financial support.
• Human Rights and Rule of Law: Criticism from human rights groups regarding Chancellor Scholz's lack of public address on these issues in Turkey.

German Chancellor's Visit to Turkey: Deepening Ties and Strategic Cooperation

German Chancellor Fredik Mount embarked on his first official visit to Turkey, aiming to foster a deepening of ties between the European Union and Turkey. The visit was framed as a friendly meeting of partners, seeking to mend a relationship that has been strained in recent years, now smoothed by pragmatism and realpolitik. Chancellor Mount conveyed a message of making even better use of the "enormous potential of our relationship" in the coming months and years.

Defense Cooperation and NATO Security

A significant point of discussion was Turkey's acquisition of Eurofighter jets. Chancellor Mount hailed this purchase as a boost to NATO security, linking it directly to the conflict in Ukraine. He stated that both Turkey and Germany recognize Russia's "militant revisionism" as a threat to Euroatlantic security. The common understanding, as articulated by Mount, is that these aircraft will serve the "collective security of the alliance" and enhance the protection and security of all NATO allies. This highlights Turkey's growing momentum in the defense industry and the extensive cooperation opportunities with Germany in this sector.

Turkey's EU Accession Path

Chancellor Mount expressed personal and governmental support for Turkey's aim to join the European Union, viewing Turkey as a "close ally of the European Union." He affirmed Germany's commitment to "continue paving the way to Europe" for Turkey. This support is particularly significant given existing opposition within the EU, notably from Greece. Germany's backing for Turkey's participation in a defense initiative involving European countries, open to non-EU members (the SAFE program), was also highlighted as an important signal.

Disagreement on Gaza

A moment of open disagreement arose during a joint press conference when the topic of Gaza was raised. While Chancellor Mount stated that Israel had exercised self-defense when attacked by Hamas, President Richard Ta Erdogan publicly chastised Germany, accusing Berlin of "ignorance." Erdogan spoke of what he termed "genocide" and "starvation practices" inflicted upon Gaza, stating, "Don't you, as Germany follow this by attacking Gaza and not only attacking, they have always striven to inflict hunger and genocide on it. And this continues to this day." Despite this stark difference in perspective, the leaders appeared willing to move past the disagreement to focus on areas of cooperation.

Strategic Importance of Turkey to Germany

Political correspondent Julia Saelli explained Turkey's importance to Germany as a "geopolitically strategic partner." This importance stems from Turkey's strength in defense and its crucial role in negotiations and dealing with the war in Ukraine. Furthermore, the close connection is reinforced by the significant Turkish diaspora in Germany and robust economic ties, with Germany being Turkey's largest trading partner. The EU-Turkey migration deal, brokered in 2016, where Turkey hosts Syrian refugees in exchange for financial support, remains significant for Germany, especially amidst rising debates on migration within the country.

Human Rights and Rule of Law Concerns

Human rights groups had urged Chancellor Mount to address Turkey's human rights violations and its crackdown on the opposition movement. However, he did not publicly raise these specific concerns. He only alluded to recent Turkish decisions undermining its path towards EU accession, referencing human rights and the rule of law. This lack of explicit mention, particularly regarding the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Mamolu, a prominent opposition figure, drew criticism from German opposition parties (Greens) and members of his own coalition government (Social Democratic Party). Critics expressed concern that these issues were not directly addressed during the visit.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Chancellor Mount's visit to Turkey was characterized by a pragmatic approach, prioritizing areas of mutual interest and cooperation, particularly in defense and strategic partnership. While significant disagreements, notably on the Gaza conflict, were evident, both leaders seemed committed to advancing the relationship. Germany's continued support for Turkey's EU bid and its recognition of Turkey's geopolitical importance underscore the complex but vital nature of their bilateral ties. However, the visit also highlighted ongoing concerns regarding human rights and the rule of law in Turkey, which were not publicly addressed by the German Chancellor, drawing criticism from various quarters. The relationship, despite its complexities, is seen as crucial for both countries, influenced by strategic interests, economic interdependence, and demographic connections.