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29-Oct-2025
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German Opposition Leader Merz Travels to Ankara for Key Talks with President Erdogan

German opposition leader Friedrich Merz has arrived in Turkey for high-level talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a visit aimed at strengthening political dialogue between Berlin and Ankara amid ongoing tensions and shifting alliances in Europe and the Middle East.

Merz, who leads Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), is expected to discuss a range of issues with Erdogan, including migration policy, regional security, trade cooperation, and Turkey’s evolving relationship with the European Union. The visit marks one of Merz’s most significant diplomatic trips since taking leadership of the CDU and comes as Germany seeks to balance its domestic politics with growing international challenges.

According to officials familiar with the meeting, both sides are eager to restore a tone of mutual respect and pragmatic cooperation, particularly as Europe faces renewed migration pressures and economic strains. Turkey, which remains a crucial partner in managing migration flows and energy routes, continues to play a key role in European security dynamics.

Merz is also expected to raise concerns over human rights, democratic reforms, and Turkey’s approach toward NATO coordination — topics that have often strained relations between the two countries. However, the tone of the visit is expected to remain constructive, with an emphasis on shared strategic interests rather than confrontation.

The trip takes place as Germany debates its broader foreign policy direction, with growing calls for stronger engagement with nations outside the EU. Merz’s outreach to Erdogan is seen by some as a signal that the CDU aims to play a more active role in shaping Germany’s international agenda.

While no formal agreements are expected from the visit, diplomats say it could pave the way for renewed cooperation and dialogue between Berlin and Ankara — a relationship that remains vital for both European stability and regional diplomacy.

Author: M.J

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