BEIJING, March 13 (Xinhuanet) -- The principles of independence, self-rule and self-management are the choices of Chinese religious groups and religious believers, said the chairman of the China Committee on Religion and Peace (CCRP).

    Ding Guangxun, the CCRP's chairman and also vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), made the remarks Monday at a plenary session of the CCRP.

    China's Constitution explicitly provides for the principles of independence, self-rule and self-management in the country's religious work, according to Ding.

    Ding encouraged domestic religious groups to strengthen exchanges with their overseas peers and to play a more active role in promoting peace and development.

    The committee has adhered to the principle of "friendship, peace, development and cooperation" in the past year, and has contributed to the country's unity, social stability, world peace and development through greater cooperation with overseas religious groups, he said. Enditem