Turkey has potential to influence Ukraine, Iran wars, German minister says

May 18 (Reuters) - Turkey can exert influence over the wars in Ukraine and ​Iran, German Foreign Minister Johann ‌Wadephul said on Monday, adding the European Union and Ankara should strengthen strategic ties.

“Turkey ​has the potential to exert ​considerable influence on these trouble spots, ⁠not only because of its ​geographical proximity, but also because of its ​enormous political and economic significance,” Wadephul told reporters at a press conference with Turkish ​counterpart Hakan Fidan in Berlin.

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It was ​desirable to keep strengthening strategic relations between Turkey ‌and ⁠the European Union, he added, with Germany advocating that Turkey be considered in the development of the EU’s ​defence and ​industrial ⁠policies.

“If Turkey wishes to join the European Union, it ​will find a friendly and ​reliable ⁠partner in Germany,” Wadephul said. However, in order to join the union, ⁠Turkey ​must meet all the ​criteria, he added.

Reporting by Linda Pasquini and Alexander ​Ratz; Editing by Aidan Lewis, Alexandra Hudson

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