BEIJING, March 18 (Xinhua) -The State Council Information Office on Monday issued a white paper on the fight against terrorism and extremism and human rights protection in Xinjiang.

(File photo: VCG)

The Chinese government stands firmly against all forms of terrorism and extremism, and is relentless in striking hard, in accordance with the law, at any conduct advocating terrorism and extremism and any action that involves organizing, planning and carrying out terrorist activities, or infringing upon citizens' human rights, the white paper said.

A country under the rule of law, China respects and protects human rights in accordance with the principles of its Constitution, said the document.  

"It is indisputable that Xinjiang is an inseparable part of Chinese territory," said the white paper, titled "The Fight Against Terrorism and Extremism and Human Rights Protection in Xinjiang."

Xinjiang, a multi-ethnic region since ancient times, constitutes an integral part of the Chinese nation, it said. "Xinjiang ethnic cultures are an inseparable part of Chinese civilization."

The white paper said the Uygur ethnic group came into being in the long process of migration and ethnic integration. "They are not descendants of the Turks."

It also said Xinjiang has long been a multi-religious region.