Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday emphasized the necessity for Europe to address defense supply challenges and enhance cooperation through joint projects, during a joint news conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Ankara.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan highlighted the significance of overcoming past difficulties in the defense industry and focusing on collaborative projects, particularly in light of Europe's changing security conditions. He praised Germany's recent steps, such as the procurement process of Eurofighter aircraft, and emphasized the potential for extensive cooperation with Germany in the defense sector, which he believes can be further solidified on a "win-win basis."
Erdogan expressed optimism about Trkiye's full EU membership, contingent on the bloc's acknowledgment of the country's determination. He pointed out that if Trkiye's efforts are recognized, substantial progress could be achieved swiftly. He also introduced the "Ankara Criteria" as the country's guiding principles in its engagements with Europe and the world, affirming that these criteria align with the Copenhagen Criteria, which Trkiye views as a positive process.
During the meeting, Erdogan expressed satisfaction with hosting Merz and his delegation, emphasizing the strong bilateral and global ties as NATO allies. He underscored the strategic importance of Trkiye-EU relations, especially in light of regional and global developments.
Erdogan marked the 64th anniversary of the Labor Agreement between Trkiye and Germany, highlighting the significant contributions of the Turkish community in Germany, which now numbers 3.5 million. He reaffirmed the community as a shared value and richness between the two nations.
The discussions with Merz also touched on developments in Syria, where Erdogan commended Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa's leadership and emphasized the importance of Syria's territorial integrity and unity. He mentioned the March 10 agreement, which aims to integrate the Syrian Democratic Forces into state institutions, as a crucial step towards peace and stability, and noted Germany's commitment to coordinate on Syrian matters.
Erdogan also shared Trkiye's counterterrorism expectations with Chancellor Merz, stressing the importance of joint efforts against terrorist organizations threatening public security. He reiterated the necessity of diplomatic efforts in resolving the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
On economic relations, Erdogan described the ties between Trkiye and Germany as "outstanding," with trade reaching $50 billion. He expressed ambitions to increase this figure to $60 billion in the near future, emphasizing Berlin's role as Ankara's largest trading partner in Europe.