ANKARA (Sputnik) — Turning to recent statements by Russian military authorities that Turkey is involved in illegal Islamic State oil trade, Erdogan said he would resign if unquestionable evidence on the matter was presented.
"Russia and Turkey have a large potential for cooperation. Our actions are not directed against Russia and we are in no way seeking an escalation," Erdogan said during a speech at a Qatar university, televised by Turkey's NTV channel.
"We are sorry to observe Russia's reaction to our stance [on the Su-24 downing], the correctness of which was recognized by the whole world," he stated.
ISIL, also known as Daesh in the Arab world, is designated a terrorist organization by numerous countries, including Russia and Turkey itself.
"Turkey has not lost its conscience so much as to buy oil from IS. Those who make such statements should provide evidence. When such evidence is presented, I won't hold on to my seat," Erdogan said.