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The head of China's Muslim community yesterday expressed deep anger over the remarks made by Pope Benedict on September 12, when he cited the words of a 14th-century Byzantine emperor who characterized some of the teachings of Prophet Muhammad as "evil and inhuman."

Chen Guangyuan, president of the Islamic Association of China, said "in his speech, Benedict insulted both Islam and Prophet Muhammad."

"This has gravely hurt the feelings of the Muslims across the world, including those from China. Both the Islamic Association of China and Chinese Muslims hereby express their anger and condemnation over Benedict's words," he said.

"We strongly request Pope Benedict to immediately retract his words and apologize openly and in person," stated Chen, also pointing out Islam preaches peace and tranquility above all things.

"Prophet Muhammad was an emissary of peace who devoted his whole life to promoting the mission of peace and tolerance," he said.

Prophet Muhammad also made it clear that his only task was to "guide and exercise mercy" to people across the world, Chen explained.

"We will adhere to the spirit promoted by Prophet Muhammad and hope that different religions and civilizations respect each other, have a dialogue and exist peacefully," he said.

Pope Benedict's response came on Sunday, when he said he was "deeply sorry" for quoting the medieval text that claimed Islam had been spread "by the sword."

Some Islamic countries such as Morocco have temporarily recalled their ambassadors to the Vatican while calls have emanated from political and religious leaders worldwide urging calm amidst religious fury that threatens only to worsen the increasing gulf between Islamic nations and the Western world.

(China Daily September 19, 2006)