Washington: China will retaliate "in proportion" if the United States sanctions its top official in the restive region of Xinjiang over alleged human rights abuses, China's ambassador to the United States said on Tuesday, adding that Beijing's policies in the region are to "re-educate" terrorists.

Security personnel on patrol in Xinjiang. Credit:AP

Chinese Ambassador to Washington Cui Tiankai told Reuters in an interview that China's efforts to combat international terrorism are held to a double standard, comparing Chinese actions in Xinjiang to US troops battling Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

"Can you imagine [if] some American officials in charge of the fight against ISIS would be sanctioned?" Cui said, adding "if such actions are taken, we have to retaliate."

Cui did not elaborate on specific actions China might take.