Religious figures condemn terrorism in Xinjiang

More than 70 religious leaders in Xinjiang have called for unity among ethnic groups to fight terrorism and religious extremism.

At a gathering in the regional capital Urumqi on Wednesday, a senior member of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region's Islamic Association, Mullah Jarulla Qurban, said religious extremism is prohibited in Islam and terrorists will not go to heaven.

Another senior figure from the Association, Mullah Abdurexit, said Islam advocates national unity as well as social stability and harmony, and punishes those who slaughter the innocent.

"A Islamic believer should always review his rhetoric and behavior, do good deeds and avoid wrongdoing. Only genuine and kind believers will be blessed by Allah." Mullah Abdurexit with Xinjiang Islamic Association said.

A standing committee member of the Association said the terrorists' violent actions distorted the religious belief of the ethnic minorities.

"Their atrocities were intended to harm national sentiment in China and distort religious belief of ethnic minority groups. They wanted to incite hatred among China's ethnic groups and create turmoil." Mullah Abdullah Mahsum with Xinjiang Islamic Association said.

During the meeting, the participants called for resolute opposition to extremist ideology and a clear vision of the evil intentions of terrorists.

Mohammad Kariaji, a teacher at the Xinjiang Islamic Institute, said Islam is a religion which promotes peace and opposes violence. He said Muslims love and seek peace. He said all Muslims should safeguard peace and take concrete action to oppose all terrorist acts, cherishing harmony and stability for the common interest of all ethnic groups.

The meeting was held in the wake of a series of terrorist attacks in the region, including one at an open-air market in Urumqi, which killed 39 people and wounded 94 on May the 20th.