German defense minister lauds Türkiye’s key role in European security

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius highlighted Türkiye’s vital role in European security during a meeting with Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler in Berlin on Wednesday. In a statement released by the German Defense Ministry, Pistorius noted that “Turkish armed forces contribute significantly to securing the alliance’s southern flank,” underscoring the strategic importance of Türkiye as a NATO ally.

Strengthening Bilateral Defense Ties

The ministers discussed ongoing developments in Ukraine and Syria, bilateral defense cooperation, and preparations for the upcoming NATO summit scheduled for July in Ankara. Pistorius emphasized the need to deepen German-Turkish security collaboration beyond existing NATO structures, stating, “We want to further strengthen our bilateral cooperation with Ankara.” This reflects a mutual interest in enhancing joint defense initiatives and addressing shared security challenges.

Focus on NATO’s 360-Degree Security Approach

The upcoming NATO summit is expected to address the alliance’s comprehensive 360-degree approach to security, which considers threats from all directions. Pistorius and Güler reviewed agenda items aimed at ensuring NATO’s readiness against emerging challenges, including regional instability and hybrid threats. The discussions also touched on Türkiye’s contributions to alliance missions and its strategic position at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and the Black Sea region.

Broader Implications for Regional Stability

The high-level meeting underscores the continued importance of German-Turkish defense dialogue amid evolving geopolitical tensions. As both nations navigate complex regional issues—from the war in Ukraine to conflict in Syria—closer coordination is seen as essential for maintaining stability and reinforcing NATO’s collective deterrence. The talks also signal Germany’s recognition of Türkiye’s growing influence and operational capacity within the alliance.