China and Vatican Extend Landmark Agreement on Bishops

China and the Vatican have extended their agreement on the appointment of bishops for an additional four years. This move aims to improve relations and manage tensions between underground Catholics loyal to the Pope and the state-backed church. The agreement, first made in 2018, allows Chinese input on appointments.

In a significant development, China and the Vatican announced the extension of their agreement on the appointment of bishops in China for an extended period of four years. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson made this known on Tuesday.

The agreement originally established in 2018, seeks to improve the relationship between the two entities by granting Chinese authorities some say in the selection of bishops, while attempting to reconcile tensions between the country's underground Catholic congregations loyal to the Pope and the state-endorsed church.

Although there was no immediate confirmation from the Vatican, Pope Francis has previously expressed satisfaction with the deal's progress. On a recent return flight to Rome from Southeast Asia, the pontiff, 87, remarked, "I am happy with the dialogue with China. We are working with good will."

(With inputs from agencies.)