Berlin remains steadfast in its existing stance regarding Turkey’s stalled accession process to the European Union, despite recent overtures from Foreign Minister Johannes Wadephul suggesting a desire for strengthened cooperation. A spokesperson for the German Foreign Ministry confirmed on Friday that the government’s fundamental position has not shifted, effectively shelving any prospect of renewed negotiations.
Wadephul, prior to a trip to Ankara, had publicly emphasized the importance of EU-Turkey collaboration given the evolving geopolitical landscape. This prompted speculation that Germany, under the current administration, might be reconsidering its approach to Ankara. However, the spokesperson’s clarifying statement underscores the reality that Berlin’s reservations – stemming from concerns over the rule of law, human rights and democratic backsliding within Turkey – remain significant barriers.
The trip, which included a meeting between Wadephul and the head of Turkey’s domestic intelligence agency, was reportedly heavily focused on the situation in the Gaza Strip. The spokesperson acknowledged Turkey’s influential role concerning Hamas, emphasizing the German government’s desire for Ankara to continue exerting that influence to facilitate progress on the 20-point plan aimed at de-escalating the conflict and achieving a lasting ceasefire. This reliance on Turkish leverage highlights a complex and potentially problematic dynamic. Critics argue that prioritising regional stability through engagement with a government facing sustained international criticism for its human rights record represents a tacit endorsement of Ankara’s current trajectory and potentially weakens the EU’s commitment to upholding its own values. The reliance on Turkish influence also risks being perceived as a transactional approach to foreign policy, potentially diminishing Germany’s credibility as a champion of democratic principles.