Official statistics show that there are more than 5 million Catholic believers in China. The figure was 2.7 million half a century ago.

Also on Saturday, the Catholic Patriotic Association of China and Chinese Catholic Bishops College issued a statement, saying that the selection and ordination of bishops fully reflected the wish of priests and believers and strictly followed Catholic traditions.

"Those bishops have solid faith and moral integrity," the statement said. "They are outstanding in theological achievement, personal morality and work capability. They have won extensive support and love from priests and believers."

The Church said it would continue to stick to the principle of independence and self-management when handling internal church affairs. "We will go ahead to spread the words of the Christ, serve the society and the people, and glorify God."

The Chinese Catholic Church also expressed the hope for earlier improvement of the relationship between China and the Vatican. "We will pray for it."

Differences remain between China and the Vatican on the ordinance of bishops. The Chinese government has proposed to the Vatican on putting aside the differences in a practical manner, said the spokesman for the State Administration of Religious Affairs.

"The Chinese government is sincere in improving ties with the Vatican and has made unremitting efforts in this regard," he said.

China is willing to have a candid and constructive dialogue with the Vatican, he said.

"We hope the Vatican stops interfering in China's internal affairs, respects the common wish of Chinese Catholic churches and believers, and sets no more obstacles which affect China-Vatican relations," the spokesman said.