Ancient Shaolin temple Abbot Shri Yongxin opines that the scourge of international terrorism can be tackled only through peaceful methods rather than the power of the gun.

''Lots of problems have been settled through communication, interaction and talks, as preached by Buddhism," he told a visiting UNI correspondent.

Referring to the 'constructive' role of Buddhism for society's betterment, the Abbot says positive aspects' had been successfully absorbed in Communism.

He appreciated the Chinese government for creating conducive conditions to spread Buddhism's ideals for people's welfare and for assisting in the temple's restoration.

Describing India as the holy place for Buddhism, Abbot Yongxin adds that Buddhists will look forward to visiting Buddhist shrines in that country.

Observing that India and China have come closer and learnt tremendously from each other, he says the Sino-Indian relationship is very important for world peace and development.

The Shaolin temple is nestled on the western foot of Henan Province's Sougshan mountains.

In 1983, the state council defined the shrine as the key national Buddhist temple. It is the origin for Chinese dhyana and Shaolin Kongfu [not Kung Fu] and thus, is titled as Chan sect and Kongfu resort.

The Shaolin Kongfu monks are well known for their great service in resisting the Japanese during the Second World War (1939-1945).