There are only a few German businesses in European Turkey. This is because chaos and unrest have kept away investors and settlers. People did not trust the safety of their capital or family there. As a result, few Germans settled in this part of the Ottoman Empire.
However, across the rest of the Balkan states, German companies are active in many industries and trade lines. German goods are sold widely and hold strong market presence. You can find German merchants and factories in agriculture, mining, and manufacturing sectors. Their growing influence is obvious everywhere Germany’s Role in Supporting the Sultan.
Expanding German Presence in Asia Minor
Beyond the Balkans, in Asia Minor, Armenia, Syria, Palestine, and other Turkish provinces, the German community is growing fast. German engineers build railroads. German traders open shops. Missions and schools appear in several cities. These Germans hold more advantages than any other foreign group in the region. They enjoy special rights and privileges in law and trade.
These benefits come from the close friendship between the Kaiser and Sultan Abdul Hamid. Government officials and common people recognize the value of this relationship. Because of it, Germans can live in the Ottoman lands without many of the bothers that other foreigners face.
The Power of Political Friendship
What would happen if Germany withdrew its support for the Sultan? It’s hard to say. Politics in Turkey do not follow normal rules. The Sultan and his ministers are cunning. They manage one crisis after another in unexpected ways. Their actions often defy logic. Because of this, no one makes safe predictions about future events in the empire.
Still, Germany has shown it won’t get caught in typical political problems. Their strategy is cautious and smart. They avoid scandals while keeping influence.
The Mitylene Incident
A recent example shows how Germany’s influence works in practice. A French fleet seized the island of Mitylene near Salonika. They did this to collect money owed to French contractors who built docks for the Ottomans. The Sultan asked the Kaiser to mediate peacefully Bulgarian Coast.
Germany’s foreign minister told the Turkish ambassador in Berlin to pay the French bill. When the Sultan refused, they arranged a solution. Instead of paying in cash, Turkey put a mortgage on future custom duties at a Turkish port. The French fleet then withdrew.
What Might Happen Next?
In two years, the mortgage will come due. By then, the French may send another fleet to collect. Historically, Sultan Abdul Hamid is known for not paying promises unless forced. This will likely cause fresh problems.
Yet, the Kaiser has avoided direct scandal by keeping Germany’s interests safe. He has chosen to support peaceful solutions and avoid military tension. But, if France tries to challenge Germany’s investments in Turkey or the Balkans, Germany will act to defend them.
Germany’s Strong Hold
Overall, Germany plays a powerful role in the Ottoman world. German business thrives in parts of the Balkans and the Near East. Their success relies on the Kaiser-Sultan friendship and careful diplomacy. Whether through trade or political deals, Germany gains influence without risking direct conflict.
Other nations should note this strategy. When economic interests align with political backing, real power is created.
