Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday, focusing on bilateral relations, regional developments and global issues, Türkiye’s Communications Directorate said.

According to the statement, the two leaders reviewed steps that could further strengthen cooperation between Türkiye and Germany, while also exchanging views on key items on the international agenda.

Erdoğan said Ankara aims to deepen its relations with Berlin and underlined the importance of maintaining regular dialogue and cooperation between the two NATO allies.

He also referred to the upcoming NATO Leaders’ Summit in Ankara next week, stressing the need for Europe to strengthen its defence capabilities under the NATO framework and for maintaining a strong commitment to the Transatlantic bond.

During the call, Erdoğan also addressed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, reiterating Türkiye’s efforts to facilitate a lasting peace through diplomatic channels. He said efforts to revive the negotiation process are continuing. (ILKHA)