ISTANBUL: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz have committed to resolving ongoing issues related to the supply of defense industry products between their nations. The announcement was made during a joint press conference in Istanbul, highlighting the collaboration between Turkey and Germany, particularly in defense and trade sectors.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Erdogan emphasized the strong ties between Turkey and Germany, both NATO allies, and expressed a mutual desire to resolve past challenges in acquiring defense industry products. The discussions have paved the way for Germany to preliminarily approve the sale of 40 Eurofighter jets to Turkey, although final authorization is still awaited.

Erdogan also noted the significant trade volume between the two nations, currently at $50 billion, with an aim to increase it to $60 billion. He pointed out the importance of updating the EU customs union and achieving visa liberalization, which he believes would be bene
ficial for all parties involved.

Furthermore, Erdogan and Scholz agreed to collaborate against terrorist organizations, particularly targeting the PKK and FETO, which Erdogan claimed pose a threat to both nations. He warned that these groups contribute to anti-Muslim sentiments in Germany, an issue that requires attention.

Chancellor Scholz also spoke out against the rise of the far-right in Germany, asserting that any form of inhuman exclusion, including antisemitism and Islamophobia, is unacceptable.