Merz Deepens Germany–Türkiye Partnership

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made his inaugural official visit to Türkiye on Oct. 30, beginning with a wreath‑laying at Anıtkabir and meetings with German business leaders before formal talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The leaders focused on defense, energy, migration and broader NATO/EU security cooperation as Europe reassesses its posture after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with Germany viewing Türkiye’s expanding drone and defense industry as strategically important. Talks covered Türkiye’s potential participation in the EU’s SAFE defense procurement initiative and the long‑discussed Eurofighter Typhoon sale, a transaction that would require German approval and faces regional objections. Migration cooperation and returns were high on the agenda, with Berlin seeking Ankara’s help on deportations of people without legal status. Energy, trade and increased humanitarian assistance for Gaza were also discussed, and both sides signaled intent to deepen a strategic partnership and held a joint news conference.