Chi expresses commitment to dialogue with Vatican

Beijing, Oct 4: The Chinese government on Tuesday expressed willingness to improve relations with the Vatican and continue a constructive dialogue, that it claims has been clear and constructive. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs was responding to Pope Francis’ statements in which he affirmed that “relations between the Vatican and Chi are good”, EFE news reported.

“Chi has always been sincere in its intention to improve Chi-Vatican relations and has made tireless efforts to this end. At present, the channels of dialogue between the two parties are clear and effective,” said the ministry spokesperson. The ministry also reaffirmed its willingness to continue the constructive dialogue with the Vatican to smooth over bilateral relations that went sour in a row over institutions in the early 1950s.

There has been a certain level of rapprochement between Chi and the Vatican since the pontification of Pope Francis, who expressed his desire to visit Chi, a tion no pope has ever visited before.

Pope Francis had responded to media questions by citing exhibitions put up by Vatican museums in Chi as an example of good relations. The Pope also revealed that Chinese President Xi Jinping had sent him a gift during a semir on Chinese culture held in the past days.

The diplomatic ties between Chi and the Vatican have been officially non-existent since 1951, following the ex-communication of two bishops, nomited by Beijing, by Pope Pius XII. (IANS)