Erdogan says talk of project cancellations in Russia row are "emotional"

Ankara to continue supporting moderate rebels in Syria and Turkmen fighters battling President Bashar al-Assad

ANKARA: Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday dismissed as "emotional" and "unfitting of politicians" suggestions that projects with Russia could be cancelled in the wake of Turkey's downing of a Russian warplane near the Syrian border.

Erdogan said the Russian jet was shot down on Tuesday in an "automatic reaction" in line with standing instructions given to the military.

Row over jet downing: Russia and Turkey refuse to back down

Turkey's military rules of engagement were a separate issue to disagreements with Russia over Syria policy, said Turkish President.

He also added that Ankara would continue to support moderate rebels in Syria and Turkmen fighters battling President Bashar al-Assad.