Germany Calls Türkiye a “Strategic Partner” Ahead of Key Ankara Talks

Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul described Türkiye as a “strategic partner” within NATO, highlighting the country’s growing importance in European and regional diplomacy. Speaking in Berlin on Friday before his official visit to Ankara, Wadephul said that Türkiye and Germany share significant foreign policy interests and that there is “great potential for deeper cooperation.”

During his one-day visit, Wadephul will meet Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan for wide-ranging discussions covering bilateral ties, defence cooperation, NATO security matters, and the future of EU–Türkiye relations. The talks will also address key international developments, including the Gaza ceasefire, Syria’s political transition, and the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war.

Türkiye’s Role in the Gaza Ceasefire Praised

Wadephul credited Türkiye with playing an essential part in achieving the historic ceasefire in Gaza, brokered through mediation efforts and a 20-point peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump.
“In the Middle East conflict, Türkiye contributed to the historic ceasefire in Gaza through its mediating role,” he said. “With the release of hostages and the ceasefire, much has been achieved that seemed impossible just a few weeks ago. However, the work toward a safe and dignified future for the people of Gaza is just beginning.”
Wadephul added that Germany and Türkiye are working together to ensure humanitarian access to Gaza and implement the full peace plan, emphasizing long-term regional stability.

NATO, Black Sea Security, and the Russia–Ukraine War

Wadephul underscored Türkiye’s critical role in NATO, especially regarding Black Sea security and the Montreux Convention, which regulates naval passage through the Turkish Straits. “It is our common goal to bring the war in Ukraine to a swift end. To achieve this, we must dry up Russia’s war chest even more quickly,” he said. “As the guardian of the Montreux Convention, Türkiye has direct responsibility for access to the Black Sea. Istanbul remains an important venue for negotiations.”

His remarks come as Western nations seek to coordinate energy, defence, and diplomatic policy amid growing security challenges from Russia and instability in the Middle East.

Support for Türkiye’s Inclusion in EU Defence Programme

Germany also backs Türkiye’s participation in the European Union’s €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) programme, which aims to boost investment in European defence industries. Wadephul said Türkiye’s involvement would strengthen Europe’s collective security capacity.
However, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has opposed Türkiye’s inclusion in the plan. In response, Wadephul urged Athens to adopt a constructive stance: “We hope Greece will not stand in the way of a partnership that benefits European security as a whole.”

The deadline for SAFE applications is November 30, and diplomatic sources indicate that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte have already expressed support for Türkiye’s participation during meetings at the European Political Community (EPC) Summit in Copenhagen.