China said on Tuesday it stands by Iraq in its war against terrorism, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman said.

Hua Chunying was commenting on the start of a large scale military operation by Iraqi forces to retake Mosul city, northern Iraq, from terrorist Daesh militants.

The Chinese stance came after Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al Abadi had announced the start of the operation.

Hua asserted China's support for the Iraqi government to maintain national stability and combat terrorism.

She voiced hope that Iraq can achieve security and stability as soon as possible.

Source: MENA