Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani says collective cooperation among all Muslim nations in the fight against violence and extremism is an “inevitable necessity.”

In separate messages on Monday to the heads of Muslim states on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, Rouhani expressed hope that Muslims would further strengthen unity and peace would be established in the world.

It is necessary that Muslim countries make more efforts and bolster cooperation to portray a real image of Islam, a religion that kindness and observance of people’s rights are among its main principles, he said.

The Iranian president added that Muslims should adopt measures to clear up a false image of Islam which has resulted in violence and extremism and the spread of Islamophobia more than ever.

President Rouhani wished prosperity for all Muslims across the world.