LONDON, March 8 (Xinhuanet)-- British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw condemned on Wednesday sectarian violence in Iraq and called for efforts by Iraqi leaders to prevent it.

    "We support the vast majority of Iraqis who reject terrorism and are working for a democratic, stable and inclusive Iraq. We look forward to the rapid formation of an inclusive government which can get down to the vital business of providing for the Iraqi people law and order, functioning services and continued reform of the economy," he said in a joint press release after meeting with Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, secretary-general of the Organization of the Islamic Conference in the afternoon.

    The two discussed the great challenges facing the international community, citing recent events, such as the tsunami in Asia, the Pakistan earthquake, the cartoons issue and acts of terrorism to show that countries and societies are more closely interconnected than ever before.

    "The need to enhance cooperation and deepen understanding between peoples, cultures and faiths has never been more important than present," said the statement.

    Expressing deep regret over the publication of insensitive and disrespectful cartoons of Prophet Mohammed in some European newspapers which has caused hurt and resentment all over the Muslim world, the two sides noted that violence surrounding their republication is unacceptable.

    But no issue could justify the use of violence or terrorism, said the release. "Terrorism is anathema to all faiths and human values, and has no legitimacy in the eyes of the civilized world."

    Straw encourages greater engagement between Muslims of Europe and the wider Muslim world, and between Muslim and non-Muslim communities against terrorism. Enditem