Liu Yandong, vice chairwoman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), on Friday urged Macao's religious groups to continue their efforts in promoting Macao's long-term prosperity and harmony.

Liu made the remarks while meeting here with representatives of major local Catholic, Islamic and Buddhist groups.

She praised local religious groups for their support for the implementation of the principles of "one country, two systems," "Macao people governing Macao" and a high degree of autonomy after Macao's return to the motherland, and their great contributions to Macao's social prosperity and stability.

She called on the religious groups to play active role in promoting the reunification of China and in suppressing the pro-independence activities in Taiwan.

Liu also called for more exchanges between Macao and mainland religious circles, asking them to join hands in promoting the prosperity of the whole country.

Liu arrived here Wednesday to attend the Overseas Chinese World Conference for Reunification of China, which was opened on Thursday.

Her Macao tour will conclude on Sunday.

(Xinhua News Agency December 16, 2006)