Radio Taiwan International
Date: 2018-02-01

The foreign ministry says it is aware of ongoing dialogue between China and the

Foreign ministry spokesperson Anna Kao. (CNA file photo)

Vatican and that it will closely monitor the latest developments.

Ministry official Ann Kao declined to comment further on reports that the Vatican and Beijing could be on the verge of a breakthrough over the appointment of Chinese bishops. Sources suggest Beijing has asked the Holy See for two bishops to step down in favor of bishops appointed by Chinese authorities.

Kao said the public should view the Vatican as a different entity from other countries when it comes to its religious mission. She said, “The Vatican is not a secular country. Its most important mission is evangelism and pastoral care. Another important matter is how to care for the Catholic churches and Catholics in mainland China. From our perspective, we cannot view this on the same level as other diplomatic or non-diplomatic allies.”    [FULL  STORY]