Berlin: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is set to visit Germany on Friday, marking his first bilateral trip to the country following an invitation from German Foreign Minister Johann David Wadephul, as reported by diplomatic sources. This visit comes at a time when Ankara-Berlin relations are witnessing accelerated dialogue and collaboration.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan's visit is expected to focus on reinforcing the consultation and dialogue mechanisms that have gained momentum through recent high-level visits between Trkiye and Germany. The minister is slated to express satisfaction with the strengthening bilateral economic and trade relations and explore opportunities for advancing cooperation in key areas such as energy and transportation with a strategic outlook.
During his visit, Fidan will also emphasize the potential for enhanced collaboration with Germany in connectivity, artificial intelligence, high technology, and digitalization. He is scheduled to meet with Turkish business leaders and representatives of civil society organizations in Germany, further strengthening social and cultural ties.
Diplomatic sources have highlighted the growing momentum in Trkiye-Germany relations across various sectors, including political, economic, military, and cultural engagements. Notably, Germany remains Trkiye's largest trade partner in Europe, with bilateral trade reaching $47.5 billion in 2024. The two nations aim to boost this trade volume to $60 billion in the short term.
In terms of investment, Germany's direct investments in Trkiye totaled $771 million in 2024, making it the second-largest foreign investor in the country. The Turkish community in Germany, numbering over 3 million, continues to serve as a vital link in Trkiye-Germany relations, enhancing the social and cultural connections between the nations.
On the European Union front, Fidan is expected to discuss Trkiye's aspirations for modernizing the Customs Union, advancing the Visa Liberalization Dialogue, and integrating into the EU's industrial strategy. He will advocate for a stronger, institutionalized cooperation between Trkiye and the EU and emphasize the importance of coordination between EU defense initiatives and NATO, with Trkiye playing a pivotal role in Europe's security architecture.
In terms of regional security, Fidan will reiterate Trkiye's commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and highlight the importance of a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. He will also address the need for humanitarian aid, reconstruction efforts, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces in the region.
Regarding Syria, Fidan will discuss efforts to achieve lasting stability and security, stressing the importance of Syria's territorial integrity and unity. As a new member of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, he will call for lifting sanctions on Syria to facilitate counterterrorism efforts.