Berlin, November 28, 2025 – The Europe Today: German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Friday described Türkiye as a long-standing and reliable NATO ally and said it should be included in the European Union’s new defense initiatives, particularly the bloc’s flagship SAFE program.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Berlin, Wadephul underlined that Germany views Türkiye as an important “geostrategic partner” and is seeking to open a “new page” in bilateral relations.
“I firmly believe the EU’s SAFE program must be opened to Türkiye and the United Kingdom as important NATO partners,” he said, referring to the EU’s €150 billion (US$173 billion) joint defense procurement initiative aimed at strengthening Europe’s defense capabilities.
Wadephul said constructive discussions were ongoing on the matter and reiterated that Türkiye had consistently proven itself to be a reliable and stable NATO partner. He added that Berlin aims to elevate its bilateral ties with Ankara, particularly in the area of security cooperation.
He stressed that the EU’s plans to bolster its defense capacity are intended to complement NATO rather than replace it.
Reviving strategic dialogue
On bilateral relations, Wadephul highlighted the deep historical, cultural, and societal bonds shared by the two countries, noting that more than three million people of Turkish origin live in Germany and play an integral role in its society.
“Few countries share such close social ties,” he said, adding that new geopolitical realities make close cooperation between Germany and Türkiye even more important. As NATO allies, he said, both countries share clear and substantial common interests.
Wadephul announced that Berlin and Ankara will revive their “strategic dialogue” mechanism at the foreign ministry level early next year to further advance cooperation.
A ‘new chapter’ in EU–Türkiye relations
Commenting on Türkiye’s relationship with the European Union, Wadephul reaffirmed Germany’s support for renewed engagement and expressed willingness to take steps to help accelerate Türkiye’s stalled EU accession process.
“Türkiye has become a key partner in many areas, so it is clearly in our interest to strengthen cooperation between the EU and Türkiye,” he said. “If Türkiye wants to join the EU—and I understand its desire—then it will find a reliable and friendly partner in Germany.”
He added that while the decision to pursue accession ultimately rests with Türkiye, the EU should also extend its hand and enhance communication channels. “Now is the time to turn a new page,” he said.
