Erdogan and Steinmeier emphasize Türkiye-Germany cooperation on Syria, Gaza, and Ukraine

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Wednesday that Türkiye will continue to work closely with Germany on regional issues, including Syria, Gaza, and the war in Ukraine.

A lasting peace in Syria, where a new administration has taken charge following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December, is a “desire of all of us,” Erdogan said during a joint press conference with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Ankara.

Erdogan also highlighted the importance of maintaining the cease-fire in Gaza, which came into effect on Jan. 19. He stressed that collective responsibility is needed to ensure its stability and emphasized the need for continued international efforts toward a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

‘Increasing xenophobia, anti-Muslim rhetoric affect Turkish community’

On the rise of Islamophobia in Europe, Erdogan expressed concern over increasing xenophobia, racism, and anti-Muslim rhetoric, noting that these issues also affect the Turkish community.

Steinmeier echoed the importance of cooperation, stating that Germany shares a common interest with Türkiye in establishing lasting peace in the region. He praised Türkiye’s significant role in the process.

Regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposals to expel Palestinians from Gaza to countries like Jordan and Egypt, Steinmeier expressed deep concern, calling the suggestions “unacceptable” under international law.