Pope Francis Hails China as 'Promise and Hope' for the Catholic Church

Pope Francis praised China as a 'promise and hope' for the Catholic Church, expressing optimism about relations with Beijing. His remarks came during a press conference after a tour through Asia, ahead of renewing a contentious bishop nomination agreement. Despite hurdles, Francis signaled positive progress in dialogue.

In a significant declaration, Pope Francis has identified China as 'a promise and a hope' for the Catholic Church, wrapping up his four-nation Asian tour with glowing remarks about Beijing.

His in-flight comments, delivered en route from Singapore, coincide with the Vatican's critical final negotiations to renew a 2018 agreement involving the controversial issue of bishop appointments. Francis expressed satisfaction with the ongoing talks, highlighting a spirit of goodwill between both parties.

The pontiff's optimistic tone underscores an enduring effort by the Vatican to mend seven-decade-old rifts with China, aiming to unify the split 12 million-strong Chinese Catholic community. Despite criticism and challenges, Francis remains positive about future engagement with the influential nation.

(With inputs from agencies.)