Then Prime Minister of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan, May 28, 2010 (photo: UN)

Turkey’s president on Tuesday called on NATO to “do its part” in helping address the country’s concerns over security on its borders.

Speaking before a flight to China, Recep Tayyip Erdogan told journalists at Ankara’s Esenboga Airport: “In case of any NATO member being attacked, NATO has to give support to this member country. Turkey, which is currently being attacked, is now exercising its right to self-defense and security and will continue to use it.”

“We are using our rights under international law and will continue to use them. It is NATO’s duty, which is why we demand NATO be prepared in this regard….”

Erdogan was speaking as NATO ambassadors met in Brussels following Ankara’s call for an emergency meeting under Article 4 of the alliance’s charter, which provides for consultation if the “territorial integrity, political independence or security” of a member is threatened.

He added: “I expect NATO will declare its readiness to take steps to do its part.”