China on Wednesday again called for dialogues based on equality and mutual respect to resolve the differences between China and the United States on religion and human rights.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang made the remarks when asked by a journalist at a press conference to respond to U.S. President George W. Bush's recent remarks on China's religious freedom.

"For the differences between China and the United States on religious and human rights issues, the two sides can resolve them through dialogues and exchanges based on the principles of equality, mutual respect and non-interference with each other's internal affairs," said Qin.

He urged the two sides to expand consensus and enhance mutual understanding so as to reduce differences.

He said the Chinese government insisted the principles of putting people first and exercising power for the people.

"China attaches great importance to safeguarding and ensuring all kinds of rights of its people, including religious freedom, and has make remarkable achievements in this regard recognized by the world," Qin added.

(Xinhua News Agency August 13, 2008)