A Chinese leader said Thursday that he hoped Iraq would attach importance to the kidnapping of eight Chinese citizens in Iraq and take all possible means to rescue them as soon as possible.

Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, made the remarks while meeting Iraqi Deputy President Rowsch Nuri Shaways.

Shaways said he felt regretful for the kidnapping and vowed "the Iraqi side will make all efforts to make the hostages released."

Jia said that Iraqi reconstruction is related to the future of Iraq and regional stability, noting China is much concerned about Iraqi reconstruction and is willing to offer help in this regard.

He said Chinese people cherish their friendship with the Iraqi people, and have always sympathized with and back up the latter, and China will promote cooperation and personnel exchanges with Iraq in accordance with the principles of mutual respect, equality and reciprocity.

Shaways said Iraq appreciates China's stance and policy on the Iraqi issue, and thanks China for its aid. He also briefed on the latest situation in Iraq.

Shaways arrived in Beijing Wednesday for a five-day working visit to China.

Source: Xinhua