Ahead of the commemorative event celebrating the 65th anniversary of the German-Turkish recruitment agreement in Berlin, the Turkish Embassy in Germany has highlighted the importance of deepening bilateral relations. The embassy informed the “Rheinische Post” on Tuesday that the goal is to further strengthen their tight political and economic ties, specifically naming plans to increase trade volume and make progress on visa liberalization.
The embassy stated that the 65th anniversary symbolizes that the friendship between the two nations is both a shared heritage and a vibrant partnership that is renewed daily.
The recruitment agreement, signed on October 30, 1961, laid the foundation for a shared history that extends far beyond the mere transfer of labor. According to the embassy, the journey undertaken by thousands of Turkish nationals at an Istanbul station-a voyage into the unknown-has shaped the lives of millions and established deep roots in both societies.
The first generation made a “significant contribution” to Germany’s economic development. Building upon this foundation, subsequent generations today contribute across politics, economics, science, art, sports, and education. Turkish-descent individuals are demonstrably achieving great success; the development of a Covid-19 vaccine by Özlem Türeci and Ugur Sahin is cited as a prime example of these achievements which the embassy is proud of.
The embassy emphasized that acknowledging the work done and preserving the friendship “in good as well as in difficult times” is critically important. They view German-Turkish relations through this spirit, noting that the high-level recognition of the Turkish community and the participation of Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the anniversary ceremony in Berlin on October 20 are particularly valuable to them.
The official celebration of the 65th anniversary of the recruitment agreement is taking place in Berlin this Tuesday. The event is hosted by Natalie Pawlik, the Federal Government’s integration representative, and the Turkish Ambassador, Gökhan Turan, is scheduled to deliver a keynote address alongside Federal Chancellor Merz.
