A Chinese foreign ministry
spokesperson on Friday congratulated Pope Leo XIV on being
elected the new leader of the Catholic Church.
"It is hoped that the Vatican will continue to engage in
constructive dialogue with China under the new pope's leadership
and conduct in-depth communication on international issues of
mutual concern," spokesman Lin Jian said.
Lin expressed hope that China and the Vatican could "jointly
promote continued improvement of relations and contribute to
world peace, stability and development prosperity."
Although there are no official bilateral relations between China
and the Holy See, Beijing and the Vatican reached a
controversial agreement on the appointment of bishops under
Leo's predecessor Pope Francis.
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