German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to travel to Turkey on Saturday for discussions with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, focusing on the ongoing Ukraine conflict and escalating tensions in the Middle East. The meeting is anticipated to address critical issues such as migration and arms exports.
Scholz's visit follows a busy diplomatic agenda, including a direct flight from Brussels to Istanbul after the European Union Leaders' Summit. This change in plans was prompted by the confirmation of U.S. President Joe Biden's delayed visit to Germany on October 18, allowing Scholz to return to Berlin for a meeting with Biden and other European leaders.
The upcoming talks hold significant importance as they mark 100 years of diplomatic relations between Germany and Turkey, which have been strained by various disagreements and a deep-seated trust deficit. Recent tensions, such as the controversy surrounding Turkish footballer Merih Demiral's gesture during a match in July, exemplify the fragility of these relations.
Previous incidents, including Erdoğan's visit to Berlin in November amid tensions with Israel, have further complicated diplomatic interactions. Scholz has maintained a calm stance, emphasizing the importance of direct dialogue despite differing views.
Both leaders are expected to discuss Turkey's potential role in mediating the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, as well as the ongoing international diplomatic efforts to establish a contact group aimed at reaching a resolution. The German government views Turkey as a key player in this initiative.
Migration control and arms exports will also be high on the agenda. Germany seeks to enhance Turkey's measures against irregular migration and expedite the process of returning rejected asylum seekers. In return, Turkey hopes for the easing of Germany's arms embargo and the approval of its request for Eurofighter jets.
Recent reports indicate that the German government has greenlit the export of military equipment for the modernization of submarines and frigates, which has garnered significant attention ahead of Scholz's visit. Political analysts suggest that Germany is likely to approve Turkey's Eurofighter request as the two nations appear to be converging on defense policies.
Ministry of National Defense sources reported that technical discussions regarding the procurement of Eurofighter Typhoon jets are ongoing, with no conditions currently imposed. However, future developments may lead to restrictions on delivery or usage.