Former senior law maker speaks out

Former Vice Chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee Tomur Dawamat says people of all ethnic groups in China stand united after the Urumqi riot. He says ethnic unity can never be destroyed.

Tomur Dawamat, Former Vice-Chairman of NPC Standing Committee, said, "Those involved in the recent smashing, looting, burning and beating incident in Urumqi are criminals. They killed Han and Uygurs alike. Their only purpose is destruction. This is not an ethnic or a religious issue. It was meant to break ethnic and national unity. No country in this world would allow such things to happen. Our country is ruled by law. The property and safety of our citizens are protected by laws. We must bring the rioters to justice. People of all ethnic groups stand united. They respect one another and support and love each other."