ISTANBUL - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with visiting German Chancellor Olaf Scholz here on Saturday to address various issues, including the escalating conflict in the Middle East and bilateral relations.

At a joint press conference following their meeting, Erdogan highlighted that the conflict in the Middle East is entering a period of escalation, which urgently needs an immediate ceasefire.

"Initially starting in Gaza, it has now spread to Lebanon, where, unfortunately, Israel continues its massacres mercilessly," he said. "It is essential that we do everything we can to achieve a lasting ceasefire and to exert the necessary pressure on Israel."

Erdogan also reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to welcoming refugees. "Especially during this time of war, we keep our doors open for those who may come to Türkiye, including from Lebanon."

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For his part, Scholz said de-escalation and a ceasefire are crucial to prevent the conflict from spreading further.

He also underscored the importance of a two-state solution, reaffirming Germany's commitment to working toward a peaceful resolution that supports both the Palestinians and Israel.

The two leaders also discussed bilateral cooperation, particularly in the defense industry.

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Erdogan noted that bilateral trade has reached $50 billion, with a goal of reaching $60 billion.

"We wish to move past some of the difficulties experienced in the procurement of defense industry products in the past and to develop our collaboration," Erdogan added, praising Scholz's efforts to remove Germany's restrictions on arms supplies to Türkiye.