Ankara: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized the importance of ending the war in Ukraine and enhancing security and development in Syria during a press conference in Ankara with his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul. According to National Iraqi News Agency, Fidan highlighted Turkey's close monitoring of integration talks between the Syrian government and the "SDF" forces, which are linked to the PKK/YPG. He expressed hopes that these talks would bolster Syria's security and economic growth. Fidan underscored the necessity for the Syrian government to regain control over the northeast and its natural resources. He also praised the solid relations between Ankara and Berlin, revealing that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to visit Turkey soon, with preparations already underway. Trade relations were a focal point, as Fidan noted that Turkey's trade volume with the European Union reached $220 billion, with $50 billion involving Germany. He anticipates increasing bilateral trade with Germany to $60 billion, attributing this to strong interactions across business, education, and social sectors. Fidan stressed the importance of updating the Customs Union with the EU and called for Germany's support in this process. He urged the EU to adopt a more strategic and unbiased approach toward Turkey, emphasizing the mutual benefits of a long-term partnership. Discussions on the Ukraine-Russia conflict were also held, with Fidan and Wadephul exchanging views on potential peace scenarios. Fidan highlighted the crucial need to preserve Ukraine's territorial integrity and prevent the war from spreading. Regarding the forthcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest, Fidan remarked that mediators must engage with both parties. He noted Turkey's previous mediation efforts, which included negotiations with both Russian and Ukrainian representatives in Istanbul. Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul addressed the situation in the Gaza Strip, an nouncing reduced arms shipments to Israel and reaffirming Germany's commitment to international humanitarian obligations. Wadephul acknowledged Turkey's strategic importance as both a NATO ally and a partner in foreign policy matters, appreciating Turkey's support for the US peace plan for Gaza. He expressed confidence in Turkey's continued partnership to advance peace efforts. Wadephul also conveyed Germany's desire to strengthen EU-Turkey relations, modernize the customs union, and achieve visa liberalization, asserting that Germany will be a reliable partner for Turkey's EU aspirations.
