China extends bishop's deal with Vatican by four years amid criticisms: Video
China and the Vatican have agreed to extend their provisional agreement on the appointment of Catholic bishops for another four years.
This extension, announced on October 22, 2024, marks the third renewal of the deal initially established in 2018.
"Since the signing of an interim agreement between China and the Vatican on the appointment of bishops in 2018, it has been extended twice in 2020 and 2022. Both China and the Vatican have given positive evaluations of the results of implementing this agreement. Through friendly consultations, the two sides have decided to extend the agreement for another four years. The two sides will maintain talks with a constructive spirit and continue to promote the improvement of China-Vatican relations," foreign ministry spokesman, Lin Jian told journalists on Tuesday, October, 22.
The original agreement, signed in 2018, was a historic step aimed at bridging the gap between the Vatican and China. It allowed for Chinese input in the selection of bishops while preserving the Pope's final decision.
According to a communiqué from the Holy See, the agreement's renewal is intended to further respectful and constructive dialogue, benefiting both the Catholic Church in China and the Chinese people.
“In light of the consensus reached for an effective application of the Provisional Agreement regarding the Appointment of Bishops, after appropriate consultation and assessment, the Holy See and the People’s Republic of China have agreed to extend further its validity for four years from the present date,” this was contained in the communiqué.
Since the agreement's inception, about ten bishops have been appointed and consecrated, and Beijing has officially recognized the public role of some previously unrecognised bishops.
However, the agreement has drawn criticism from conservative Catholics who believe it grants excessive influence to the Chinese state. Cardinal Joseph Zen of Hong Kong has been a particularly vocal opponent, expressing concerns about the potential impact on the Church's independence.
