Shi Taifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the United Front Work Department, stressed the importance of fostering a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation while adhering to the principle of developing religions in Chinese context during a survey in Northwest China's Gansu province from July 10 to 13. 

Shi visited universities, communities and villages inhabited by ethnic minority groups, religious venues and religious schools, as well as private enterprises in Lanzhou, Linxia Hui autonomous prefecture, and Gannan Tibetan autonomous prefecture, where he learned about progress in fostering the sense of a community for the Chinese nation, efforts to boost ethnic unity, the training of religious personnel, and measures to develop new quality productive forces and increase the income of farmers and herdsmen. 

He also visited post-earthquake reconstruction and resettlement sites, industrial parks, and schools, and consulted with affected residents on post-disaster relief and production recovery efforts. 

Shi called for increased research into the fundamental issues concerning the community for the Chinese nation, as well as improved preservation and utilization of historical materials, cultural relics and folk culture. 

Shi emphasized the importance of publicizing ethnic unity and progress as well as the sense of community for the Chinese nation, especially among young people, and facilitating extensive interactions, exchanges and integration among all ethnic groups. 

He stressed upholding the principle of developing religions in Chinese context, emphasizing that proper guidance must be provided to religious bodies so they can adapt themselves to socialist society. 

He also highlighted the need for guiding religious figures and believers in ensuring national unity, ethnic solidarity and social stability.  

He urged support for enhancement of the religious talent pool, and stressed the role of religious schools in cultivating young people proficient in both religious doctrines and traditional Chinese culture.