Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu said that protecting its airspace to ensure its national security is the most natural right for Turkey.
“Turkey certainly acted in line with the rules of engagement. The plane was shot down as it continued to violate our air space despite several warnings," Davutoğlu said, speaking during the first group meeting of the 64th goverment.
His remarks come after a Russian war plane was downed in Turkish air space Tuesday morning.
Davutoğlu reiterated the official position. “Turkey has clearly expressed to Russian authorities that it will intervene in the engagement rules in the event of further violations of its airspace by any Russian military plane. But Russia has ignored Turkey's warnings."
The PM was referring to a series of meetings between high-level military delegations held in October in Ankara. Turkish military officials taking place in the talks requested that Turkey's warning be conveyed to President Vlamidir Putin five times.
“This plane was considered a threat and the rules of engagement were applied. If such kind of violations continue despite our warnings, it is our duty to our nation to take every kind of measure," he declared. “Turkey has no claim upon on any other country's territory."
Davutoğlu has hinted that there will be no switch in Turkey's foreign policy, naming Russia as a friendly country and an important partner. “Russia is both a friend and a neighbour for us. We do/will not have no intention to put a strain in our relations or to stretch the rope with Russia. The relations between the great powers cannot be sacrificed to any contact accident," he explained.
Davutoğlu called on Russia not to take any steps that might escalate further tension. “To avoid increasing tension is an approach that both sides should have," he urged.
