German Leader Calls for Stronger EU-Turkey Relationship Amidst policy Disputes
BERLIN – Despite sharp disagreements over the conflict in Gaza and concerns about the rule of law in Turkey, German parliamentary leader Friedrich Merz advocated for deeper European ties with Ankara, signaling a need for continued dialog and cooperation. Merz’s remarks, made during a joint press conference with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, underscore a complex relationship balancing strategic interests with fundamental values.
The push for strengthened EU-Turkey relations comes at a pivotal moment as Europe seeks to navigate geopolitical challenges,including managing migration flows,countering terrorism,and maintaining regional stability. While acknowledging meaningful concerns regarding democratic principles in Turkey – including the ongoing legal battles faced by Istanbul Mayor ekrem İmamoğlu - Merz emphasized the importance of maintaining channels of communication with a key NATO ally and regional power.The future of this relationship will likely shape the EU’s ability to address pressing security and economic concerns in the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond.
Merz indirectly referenced İmamoğlu’s case, who has been under pretrial detention as March on corruption charges he denies, and the recent filing of new espionage charges against him. He stated that “decisions have been made in Turkey that do not yet meet the requirements regarding the rule of law and democracy as we understand them from the European point of view.” Erdoğan countered by defending Turkey’s judicial system, asserting that authorities are “obliged to take whatever action is necesary” against those who “trample on the law.”
The two leaders also clashed over the situation in Gaza. Merz affirmed Germany’s unwavering support for Israel, rooted in its historical commitment following the Holocaust, but added that this support does not preclude criticism of Israeli government policies. He stated, “Israel made use of its right of self-defense, and it would have taken only a single decision to avoid the countless unnecessary victims: Hamas should have released the hostages earlier and laid down its weapons. Then this war would have been over instantly.”
Erdoğan, a staunch critic of Israel’s military actions, accused Israel of employing “starvation and genocide” as weapons of war and criticized what he perceived as a failure by Germany to acknowledge the power imbalance between Israel and Hamas. He questioned, “As Germany, can’t you see this?”
Despite these disagreements, Merz reiterated the need for a strategic partnership with Turkey, recognizing its importance in regional security and economic cooperation. The visit and subsequent statements signal a willingness from Germany to engage with Turkey despite ongoing concerns, prioritizing dialogue as a means of navigating complex geopolitical realities.
