China's religious affairs chief urges muslims to oppose extremism

BEIJING -- Chinese muslims should resolutely oppose religious extremism, said Wang Zuo'an, chief of the State Administration for Religious Affairs.

Wang made the remarks while attending the 10th National Congress of Chinese Muslims, which opened on Saturday.

Wang said the development of Islam in China should stick to socialism with Chinese characteristics.

While respecting muslims' beliefs and customs, religious interference in the fields of politics, justice and education is intolerable, Wang said.

It is strongly advocated that new mosques should demonstrate Chinese characteristics and national features, instead of deliberate copying foreign architectural styles, Wang said.

The chief also said he appreciated the work of the Islamic Association of China (IAC) during the past five years. The IAC should foster islamic clergy and actively carry out friendly exchange with foreign countries, Wang said.