German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said on Monday that Turkey has both the potential and the capacity to exert influence over the wars in Ukraine and Iran. He also stressed that the European Union and Ankara should strengthen their strategic ties.
“Turkey has the potential to exert significant influence in these crisis areas, not only because of its geographical proximity, but also because of its major political and economic importance,” Wadephul told reporters at a press conference with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan in Berlin.
He added that efforts to strengthen strategic relations between Turkey and the European Union will continue, with Germany supporting Turkey’s consideration in the development of EU defense and industrial policies.
“If Turkey wants to join the European Union, it will find a friendly and reliable partner in Germany,” Wadephul said.
He emphasized that in order to join the Union, Turkey must fulfill all required criteria.
