Human Rights Watch urged Friedrich Merz to denounce Turkey’s repression of the opposition and the detention of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. During his first official visit to Ankara, German Chancellor Merz called for a deeper strategic alliance between Europe and Turkey to face global challenges. He spoke beside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, days after Turkey and the UK sealed a multibillion-euro deal for 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets. Germany, part of the consortium that produces the jets, recently ended its long opposition to exporting them to Turkey. Reports also indicated German support for Turkey’s involvement in the €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defence initiative, which aims to boost Europe’s military power. The programme lets non-EU states such as Turkey take part in defence projects. Greece objected to Turkey’s inclusion, insisting Ankara must withdraw its threat of war linked to maritime disputes.
Merz Pushes Cooperation Despite Disputes
Merz avoided referring to SAFE but highlighted the value of collaboration. He said Germany and Turkey must fully harness their partnership in the coming years. He argued that shifting global power dynamics require Germany and Europe to broaden strategic ties, stating that a strong relationship with Turkey remains essential. Differences emerged at the press conference regarding human rights and Gaza. Human Rights Watch again pressed Merz to oppose Turkey’s crackdown on dissent, including İmamoğlu’s imprisonment. Authorities accused the opposition leader of corruption and recently added espionage charges, which he denied. Merz avoided naming him but said Turkey’s recent decisions fail to meet Europe’s standards of democracy and the rule of law. Erdoğan defended Turkey’s judiciary, asserting that legal authorities must act when anyone violates the law.
Gaza Crisis Deepens Diplomatic Tension
Merz reaffirmed Germany’s historic commitment to Israel since the Holocaust but said this loyalty does not mean unconditional approval of its policies. He has repeatedly criticised Israel’s operations in Gaza, insisting that Hamas could have ended the conflict by freeing hostages and surrendering. Erdoğan condemned Israel’s military actions and accused it of using “starvation and genocide” as weapons. He argued that Hamas lacks the destructive capacity Israel holds and accused Germany of ignoring the imbalance, asking, “As Germany, can’t you see this?”
