Buddhism, whose core values are mercy and respect for life, opposes self-immolation, said representatives of the three branches of Buddhism in China.

They made the remarks at a two-day seminar on the Buddhist view of life, which started on Wednesday in Chengdu, Sichuan province.

Sponsored by the Buddhist Association of China, around 40 senior monks and experts from the three branches of Buddhism in China are taking part in the event.