Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier today (4 May) sent a letter congratulating his new colleague, Dr Ahmet Davutoglu, on his appointment as Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey. The letter read as follows:

“Germany and Turkey are linked by long-standing good and amicable contacts. Our bilateral exchange is broad-based and intensive in every sphere. The Ernst Reuter Initiative is one example very close to my heart. It has lent relations between our countries a new dimension.

Germany is following with great interest the development of your country and the political situation there. Turkey has gained considerable international respect and recognition for its balanced and constructive foreign policy. The courageous steps towards reconciliation with your neighbour Armenia are especially commendable.

I wish you stamina and every success in carrying out the demanding duties of your new office. I am very much looking forward to working with you to further extend and intensify the close relations our two countries enjoy. I hope we will soon have an opportunity to exchange views in person.”

Read more on Germany's bilateral relations to Turkey: