The Vatican and China have agreed to extend their provisional agreement on the appointment of bishops for another four years, it was announced Tuesday.
Originally signed in 2018 and renewed twice before, the agreement aims to bridge longstanding differences over control of the Church in China.
“The Vatican party remains dedicated to furthering the respectful and constructive dialogue,” the Holy See stated, emphasizing its benefits for “the Catholic Church in China and the Chinese people as a whole.”
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian confirmed the extension, noting that both sides will “maintain contact and dialogue following a constructive spirit,” reported AP.
The deal allows the Pope to have a say in bishop appointments, a significant shift after decades without formal relations. Despite some appointments occurring without papal approval, leading to criticism, about ten bishops have been appointed under the agreement.
Pope Francis has expressed previously expressed satisfaction with the ongoing dialogue, and his desire to visit China.
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