MOFA: Taiwan, Vatican deepen ties amid China concerns

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) highlighted the profound friendship between Taiwan and the Vatican on Wednesday (May 22), acknowledging the Vatican's desire to promote religious freedom and rights for Catholics in China. 

Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin expressed the Vatican's hope to establish a permanent office in China to enhance the freedom of belief for Chinese Catholics.

Taiwan-Vatican Relations Strengthen Amid Concerns

MOFA said it is closely monitoring the interactions between the Vatican and China and urging countries worldwide to encourage China to cease infringements on religious freedom and basic human rights. 

This call to action comes in light of the Chinese government's restriction on religious freedom, contradicting the Provisional Agreement regarding the appointment of Bishops signed in 2018, which has significantly deviated from the Pope's full and actual authority over the appointment of bishops in China since the first Council of the Chinese Catholic Church in 1924.

Diplomatic and Environmental Engagements

Archbishop Charles John Brown, the Papal Nuncio to the Philippines, visited Taiwan from May 19 to May 21, underscoring the strong ties between Taiwan and the Vatican. 

Additionally, Deputy Minister of Environment Shih Wen-chen (施文真) attended the "From Climate Crisis to Climate Resilience" international conference at the Pontifical Academy of Sciences in the Vatican from May 15 to May 17, showcasing the multifaceted interactions between Taiwan and the Vatican.

MOFA reaffirmed its commitment to advancing cooperation with the Holy See and the Catholic Church in humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the shared core value of defending religious freedom. This ongoing partnership reflects both entities' dedication to fostering a global environment where religious beliefs and human rights are respected and upheld.