German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s inaugural official visit to Ankara on Thursday signifies a pivotal shift in Berlin’s approach toward Turkey, emphasizing a security-oriented and transactional partnership. This visit underscores Germany’s growing reliance on Ankara’s role in bolstering European security and marks an effort to reset bilateral relations on a new foundation of cooperation. Historically, Germany’s concerns regarding Turkey revolved around domestic issues, human rights, and migration, particularly concerning Syrian refugees. However, Merz’s agenda now encompasses broader collaboration, including joint efforts to address the war in Ukraine and potential defense sector initiatives. A notable development is Germany’s approval of a €10.7 billion Eurofighter jet deal with Turkey, featuring advanced Meteor missiles and cutting-edge weaponry. Sources in Ankara suggest that Berlin has also urged Greece and Cyprus not to obstruct Turkey’s participation in the EU’s Safe initiative, which allocates €170 billion for defense industry investments. Merz emphasized the multifaceted nature of German-Turkish relations, spanning foreign policy, security, migration, energy, and trade, during his arrival in Ankara. He expressed his commitment to strengthening this partnership through discussions with President Erdogan. Turkey’s mediation efforts in the Ukraine conflict, including hosting talks between Russia and Ukraine, have been welcomed by Berlin. However, achieving a lasting peace would require significant strategic adjustments, potentially involving territorial compromises for Ukraine. Beyond Ukraine, Turkey has raised bilateral concerns, including a request for price reductions on Siemens high-speed trains for its expanding rail network. Ankara also seeks updates to the customs union, visa facilitation, and cooperation in Africa to counter Chinese influence. Additionally, Turkey aims for Germany’s continued support for the Gaza ceasefire plan brokered by Donald Trump, which envisions Hamas’s disarmament and political transformation. Merz is expected to address the issue of Turkish asylum seekers, pressing Ankara to accept more rejected applicants as Germany intensifies deportation efforts. Official data reveals that 22,560 Turkish nationals await deportation, with Germany also exploring the resumption of deportations to Syria, contingent on Turkey’s cooperation. This visit highlights the evolving dynamics of German-Turkish relations amid shifting geopolitical priorities.