Türkiye pledges continued aid to Gaza and support for reconstruction

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has reiterated his nation's steadfast commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to Gaza and supporting Palestinian aspirations. During a joint press conference with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Friday, Fidan declared that "Türkiye will continue to be a breath for Gaza and a hope for Palestine," emphasizing Ankara's determination to actively participate in reconstruction efforts.

A Comprehensive Approach to Lasting Peace

Minister Fidan outlined a vision where reconstruction and political solutions proceed simultaneously. "Every building that rises in Gaza will be a work of humanity's collective conscience," he stated, while emphasizing that the ultimate objective remains "to implement a two-state solution and to establish a Middle East where peace and prosperity prevail." He noted that humanitarian aid must be both systematic and long-term, building on increased assistance delivered since the ceasefire began.

German-Turkish Alignment on Key Issues

The diplomatic meetings revealed significant alignment between Berlin and Ankara on several fronts. Both ministers confirmed their shared expectation that the Gaza ceasefire would hold, humanitarian aid would flow uninterrupted, and the conflict would conclude permanently. Wadephul praised Türkiye's "very valuable" contribution to implementing the US-led ceasefire plan and expressed confidence that Ankara would continue supporting efforts to transform the truce into a genuine peace process.

Strengthening Bilateral and EU Relations

Beyond Middle Eastern diplomacy, the discussions covered substantial economic and strategic partnerships. Fidan noted that Germany is one of Türkiye's largest trading partners, with bilateral trade approaching $50 billion annually and potential to reach $60 billion. Both ministers advocated for updating the EU-Türkiye customs union, revitalizing visa dialogue, and developing a long-term strategic framework. Wadephul reinforced Germany's view of Türkiye as "not only a NATO ally but a strategic partner and good friend in all foreign policy issues."