Visiting Turkey is something special for any German Foreign Minister. Our societal ties are closer than those with any other country. More than three million people in Germany have Turkish roots. Many of them feel at home in both cultures, a source of huge enrichment for both our countries.

In terms of foreign policy, too, there is great potential for cooperation. Through its mediator role in the Middle East conflict, Turkey helped bring about the historic ceasefire for Gaza. As one of the supporters of the peace plan – and as a country which we expect to continue exerting pressure on Hamas – Turkey has a responsible role to play. With the release of the hostages and the ceasefire, much has been achieved that seemed impossible just a few weeks ago. However, the work on a safe and dignified future for people in Gaza has only just begun. Together, we are pressing for full access for the humanitarian actors in order to alleviate the worst hardship. Together we are working to ensure that the 20-point plan for lasting peace is implemented in its entirety.

After years of civil war, we are committed to a political transition in Syria in which all societal and religious groups have their place. Over the years, by far the greatest number of refugees from Syria have found refuge in Turkey. We are united in our aim of promoting a safe and stable Syria to facilitate their safe and voluntary return.

We regard Turkey as a key strategic partner within the NATO Alliance, which is why Russia – the greatest threat facing NATO – and Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine will be among the important issues on the agenda. Our shared goal is to ensure that this war is ended soon. To achieve that, we also have to dry up the revenue flowing into Russia’s war coffers even more quickly. As custodian of the Montreux Convention, Turkey has direct responsibility for access to the Black Sea. Furthermore, Istanbul is a key city where negotiations could be held.

With regard to the geostrategic situation, we also want to step up cooperation between the EU and Turkey. The question as to which political developments and decisions are required on Turkey’s part will be another issue discussed during my talks in Ankara.