Friedrich Merz praises Turkish community's contribution to Germany

Friedrich Merz Germany-Turkey Labor Agreement Turkish diaspora integration industrial history

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted the significant economic, cultural, and scientific contributions of the Turkish community during an event marking the 65th anniversary of the Germany-Turkey Labor Agreement. Speaking in Berlin, Merz noted that the first generation of Turkish workers helped build the foundation of Germany's industrial infrastructure and current prosperity, particularly in regions like the Ruhr area.

Merz observed that while many workers initially intended to return to Turkey, approximately half remained and eventually brought their families, transforming temporary labor movement into permanent migration. He cited several successful individuals of Turkish descent as examples of integration, including BioNTech founders Ugur Sahin and Ozlem Tureci, footballer Ilkay Gundogan, and director Fatih Akin.

Addressing social challenges, Merz warned against rising racism and xenophobia in Germany. He criticized the concept of 'remigration,' describing it as an attack on the modern Germany built over the last 65 years. He emphasized that integration is a continuous duty for pluralistic societies, requiring mutual effort and ensuring that all residents, regardless of origin, receive equal opportunities and a sense of belonging.

Entities

BioNTech · Friedrich Merz · Germany · Ruhr region · Turkey

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 3 SOURCES] The Germany-Turkey Labor Agreement is marking its 65th anniversary. beyazgazete.com · www.bloomberght.com · shenja.tv
[● 3 SOURCES] Approximately half of the workers who arrived between 1961 and 1973 returned to Turkey. beyazgazete.com · www.bloomberght.com · shenja.tv
[○ 1 SOURCE] Merz criticized the concept of 'remigration' as an attack on modern Germany. beyazgazete.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] Turkish workers contributed to the development of the Ruhr region's industrial structure. www.bloomberght.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Merz cited Ilkay Gundogan and Fatih Akin as successful figures of Turkish descent. beyazgazete.com · www.bloomberght.com · shenja.tv
[○ 1 SOURCE] Merz stated that xenophobia in Germany has increased rather than decreased. beyazgazete.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Friedrich Merz identified Uğur Şahin and Özlem Türeci as successful examples of the Turkish community. beyazgazete.com · www.bloomberght.com · shenja.tv
[○ 1 SOURCE] The labor agreement was originally signed on October 30, 1961. shenja.tv