Chinese President Xi Jinping stressed that the legalization of religion work should be promoted at a three-day meeting of the united front work held from May 18 to 20 in Beijing, Xinhua reported.

Authorities must value the influence of persons in the religious sphere and guild them to better serve for the nation's development, harmony and unification, Xi said.

"Active efforts should be made to incorporate religions in socialist society," said Xi, adding that religions in China must be Chinese.

The development of religions in China should be independent from foreign influence, according to Xi.
He promised to fully implement the Party's policy of religious freedom and manage religious affairs in line with the law.

The President also called for a balanced attitude toward religion, taking account of the pros and cons.