Iraqi ambassador to China Dr. Mohammad Sabir Ismail has said what the Chinese government had done to restore order and stability in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is duty-bound and gives no cause for criticism.

"Taking effective measures to maintain social stability and curb violence is the duty of all governments and the Chinese government has adopted a series of necessary measures to maintain security and avoid escalation of violence which in our view is China's internal affairs," Sabir Ismail said in a recent interview with Xinhua.

The ambassador said that the teachings of all religions advocate love, friendship, peace and harmony and it is not right to link the violent crimes in Urumqi with religion or race.

Speaking of his impression about Xinjiang, Sabir Ismail said although he had stayed in Xinjiang for only a short time, he was delighted and impressed by the beautiful scenery there.

"On the streets of Urumqi, the guiding signs in Uygur are eye-catching," he added.

"There is even Uygur language on RMB notes,' he said.

As to China's relations with Arab and Islamic countries, Sabir Ismail said that the friendly ties between the two sides are time-honored and are based on mutual respect and benefits.

He added that China supports the Arab countries in affairs that concern their nation's destiny and the Arab nations also consistently adhere to the one-China policy.

The ambassador said that to increase understanding and communication between the peoples in China and the Arab countries, the two sides should enhance bilateral exchanges in such fields as tourism, culture and sports as well as reinforce contact between non-governmental organizations.

(Xinhua News Agency July 26, 2009)