Potential German FM Laschet: We need Türkiye “İmamoğlu Issue shouldn’t strain Ties”

German MP Armin Laschet has stressed the importance of maintaining strong relations with Türkiye, warning against straining ties over the case of detained opposition figure Ekrem İmamoğlu.

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) politician, who is being considered as a potential foreign minister, highlighted Türkiye’s crucial role in various international matters, Caliber.Az reports per Turkish media.

Speaking on the issue, Laschet noted, “It would be very easy to make a strong statement in defence of the mayor. However, we need Türkiye in the grain deal between Russia and Ukraine, in many mediation efforts, in managing migration policies, and in ensuring stability in Syria. This is why foreign policy must be approached with caution.”

To recall, Imamoğlu, a prominent opposition figure and potential presidential contender, was detained on March 19. The charges against him include bribery, fraud, illegal acquisition of personal data, and manipulation of public tenders.

His arrest has sparked widespread protests, with his supporters and opposition groups alleging political motives behind the case.

Despite restrictions imposed on March 21, including road closures around City Hall in Istanbul, demonstrators have continued gathering for several nights. Similar protests occurred in other cities, including Adana and Trabzon, Imamoğlu’s hometown. 

In some areas, clashes broke out between security forces and demonstrators. Police used water cannons and pepper spray to disperse crowds in Ankara and Izmir, and over 100 individuals were detained.

By Aghakazim Guliyev