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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday underscored Türkiye's crucial role within NATO, confirming plans to visit Ankara and stressing Berlin’s commitment to deepening defense ties with Ankara amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Speaking during his first visit to NATO headquarters since assuming office, Merz emphasized that Türkiye’s geographical position and military role in the alliance cannot be overlooked.
"Türkiye protects an area in NATO territory whose strategic importance is absolutely vital," Merz said during a joint press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. "Therefore, Türkiye is an extremely valuable and important NATO partner for us. I will do everything I can to maintain and further expand this partnership within NATO."
The remarks were prompted in part by a question from Anadolu Agency about Türkiye's role in European defense industry efforts. Merz confirmed the matter was discussed during his meeting with Rutte.
Merz said he plans to travel to Türkiye soon, accepting an invitation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "I will visit Türkiye in the near future at the invitation of President Erdogan," Merz said, noting that his previously scheduled trip had been canceled.
The visit is expected to focus on deepening bilateral cooperation, regional security, and Türkiye’s evolving defense industry.
Chancellor Merz also addressed growing speculation over whether Berlin will approve the export of Eurofighter jets to Türkiye. While no final decision has been made, Merz confirmed that the issue is under consideration by the German government.
"Our government will make a decision regarding the delivery of Eurofighter jets," he said. "But we are united by a strong will to ensure that Türkiye, as a key NATO member, remains closely aligned with us."
Merz’s comments reflect a broader German foreign policy push to consolidate transatlantic ties and strengthen NATO’s southern and eastern flanks. His acknowledgment of Türkiye’s strategic location and commitment to supporting its role within the alliance comes amid ongoing regional instability in Eastern Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean.
"Türkiye’s continued commitment to NATO is of great importance," Merz said, adding that he supports institutionalizing cooperation where necessary.
Merz’s trip to Brussels, his third international visit within four days of taking office, included meetings with E.U. Council President Antonio Costa, E.U. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
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