No mass Chinese evacuation from Iraq

China does not want the Iraqi situation to worsen and wishes to avoid a mass evacuation of Chinese nationals as there was from Libya in 2011, a spokeswoman said on Wednesday.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying made the comment when asked if evacuation of Chinese nationals from Iraq was under consideration as the situation there continues to deteriorate.

"China is worried about the security situation in Iraq. We support the Iraqi government's effort to maintain domestic security, stability and fight terrorism," Hua said at a regular news briefing, voicing hope that Iraq can restore security, stability and order at an early date.

She confirmed the release of a Chinese worker kidnapped last week and that over 10,000 personnel of Chinese businesses in Iraq are safe.

"China will closely watch the situation in Iraq and take necessary measures to protect the Chinese firms, institutions and citizens there," Hua said.

The Chinese Embassy in Iraq has demanded the Iraqi side take effective measures to ensure the safety and legitimate interests of Chinese institutions and citizens. The Embassy has also reminded and guided Chinese businesses to strengthen security.

Large parts of northern Iraq are now in the hands of militants, fuelling fears that the country may split and a full-blown sectarian war erupt in the Middle East.