
The Catholic Church may open a permanent office in China, a sign of a major thaw in relations between the two countries. according to arrive many kinds of media Report.
If confirmed, the move would mark a dramatic shift in policy for the Vatican, which has no diplomatic ties with China and instead recognizes Taiwan – the only European country to do so.
“We have long wanted to be able to have a stable presence in China,” Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin said, according to Reuters. Reuters said the Vatican will consider “new diplomatic options” to promote such a presence. .
[See more: William Lai has taken up office as Taiwan’s new leader]
The news comes amid increasingly cordial relations between the Vatican and Beijing. The Holy See has recently held talks with high-level representatives of the Catholic Church in China and is reportedly preparing to recognize the Chinese Bishops’ Conference.
The Vatican’s moves will be closely watched by Taipei, which has seen its number of allies shrink significantly in recent years. Only 11 countries Most of them are small Caribbean and Pacific countries that currently recognize Taiwan.
Further adding to the pressure, Beijing has launched Major military and naval exercises A few days later William Lai – considered a separatist by Beijing – to become the island’s leader. Analysts say the exercises show Beijing will use Blocking strategy If Taiwan cannot achieve peaceful reunification through negotiations, then Taiwan will face military threats.
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