Turkish and German Foreign Ministers Highlight Special Bilateral Relations
The Foreign Ministers of Turkey and Germany, in a joint press conference held in Berlin, emphasized the importance of the special relations between the two countries and the need to continue comprehensive cooperation in all fields.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, noting Germany’s position as Turkey’s main trading partner in Europe and one of the largest global markets for the country, stated: “In Turkey’s accession process to the European Union, there are no criterion-based obstacles; the main problem is the suspension of negotiations and the lack of opening of new chapters.”
He added: “Turkey must not be excluded from the SAFE studies and mechanism, as this is of vital importance for Europe’s security. Moreover, the experiences of the Turkish Armed Forces should be constructively utilized to strengthen Europe’s security.”
Addressing developments in Gaza, Fidan warned: “We must not witness destruction and genocide in the Gaza Strip once again.”
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadefull described Turkey–Germany relations as “special and unique,” saying: “No other country has relations with Germany at this level. We intend to hold a strategic dialogue at the level of foreign ministers next year.”
Wadefull, praising Turkey’s role as a mediator in the Ukraine crisis and its valuable contributions, stressed: “If Turkey decides to join the European Union, Germany will always be its reliable partner. Furthermore, the SAFE mechanism must remain open to Turkey and the United Kingdom as key NATO allies.”
He concluded: “Turkey has always been a highly reliable NATO ally for us.”
