Sources have recently indicated that officials from both the Vatican and China are likely to meet in Rome by the end of the month to finalize the deal regarding the ordination of bishops in the main land.
It is said that this is one of the most critical issues that causes a strain in relations between the Holy See and Beijing and upon the finalization of the deal, it may assist in restoring the relationship of both countries. Previously, China opposed Rome's right to ordain Chinese bishops considering their strained relations.
Sources close to the Vatican told Reuters that China agreed to ordain two new bishops before the year ends and another source in China confirmed this report. Experts remarked that this breakthrough would improve the situation of Chinese Christians and also prevent the further split within the community. Currently, the Chinese Christian community is divided between the followers of the state-sanctioned Catholic Church and an "underground" community which supports the Roman Catholic Church."
Catholic University of Milan researcher Elisa Giunipero remarked that this deal "would definitely remove the risk of a schism (within the Church in China), which for 60 years has been a potential threat. "
The Vatican has been working extensively to improve its ties with the mainland and in August, Pope Francis and his secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, said that they are optimistic about restoring their diplomatic relations with China.
However, there may still be complications in restoring Chinese-Holy See ties as experts said that the Holy See would have to revisit their ties with Taiwan. The Holy See is one of the 22 countries which recognizes Taiwan.
