Turkey’s Erdogan to arrive in Berlin for talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel
Today, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will arrive in Berlin to discuss the role of Turkish-German cooperation in mitigating regional concerns.
Ankara and Berlin have endured diplomatic strain, particularly around migration management and Turkey’s internal instability following the 2016 coup attempt. Germany must maintain as positive relations as possible with the country; with a falling currency and drift towards Russia, a further ostracised Turkey would bring trouble for European markets and security interests.
Expect Mr Erdogan and Chancellor Merkel to emerge from the discussions with mention of partnered strategies to tackle the Syrian civil war and strengthen economic relations. The success of this meeting will show if, for example, German policymakers can convince Germany’s NATO allies to reduce sanctions against Turkey. A main point of contention between Turkey and the West has been the former’s involvement in Russian-led Astana peace process. Though it is very unlikely that Turkey will back away fully from Astana, focusing on the humanitarian concerns in Syria may be the factor most likely to bring Berlin and Ankara closer together.
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