China Recognizes Authority of Catholic Bishop of Tianjin

China has recognized the authority of Catholic Bishop Melchior Shi Hongzhen of Tianjin, who was previously under house arrest for not joining the state church. The Vatican called it a positive outcome of recent dialogues between the Holy See and the Chinese Government.

China's government has officially recognized the authority of Catholic Bishop Melchior Shi Hongzhen of Tianjin, according to a statement from the Vatican on Tuesday.

Previously, the bishop was placed under house arrest for his refusal to join the official state-backed church structure. This marks a significant shift in religious policy and an important milestone following years of dialogue between the Vatican and Chinese authorities.

The Vatican has hailed this development as a positive outcome of ongoing discussions and negotiations aimed at improving relations and religious freedom in China.

(With inputs from agencies.)