China urges Vatican to put into action its will to better bilateral relations, FM spokesman

China on Thursday urged the Vatican to put into action its will to better relations with China.

"The Vatican is very clear about the principles that China advanced for developing China-Vatican relations," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan at a regular press conference.

The first is that the Vatican must terminate its diplomatic relations with Taiwan and recognize the fact that the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing all of China, and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory.

The second is that the Vatican should not interfere in China's internal affairs, including any intervention under the pretext of religious affairs.

"The Chinese Constitution guarantees freedom of religion for Chinese citizens," said Kong, adding that the believers of major religions are increasing in China.

The spokesman said, on the one hand, the Chinese government ensures citizens the freedom of religion; on the other hand, believers of all the religions should comply with the responsibility and obligations that the laws bestow upon them.

Source: Xinhua