In recent statements, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, has affirmed the continuation of the dialogue between the Vatican and China. Detailing the ongoing communications, Cardinal Parolin described the process as progressing "in small steps," emphasizing a steady if gradual, advance in diplomatic relations between the Holy See and the People's Republic of China.

This dialogue is part of an effort to improve the situation for Catholics in China, where religious activities are tightly controlled by the government. The goal, from the Vatican's perspective, is to secure a more sustainable position for the Catholic Church within Chinese society, ensuring that local Catholics can practice their faith more freely and with official recognition.

The approach, as confirmed by Cardinal Parolin, remains consistent and patient, focusing on long-term benefits rather than quick solutions. This ongoing communication reflects Pope Francis's often-expressed hope for a church that is fully integrated within the local cultural and societal fabric in China, balancing respect for local authorities with the essential freedoms necessary for the Catholic Church to operate effectively.

This news comes in the context of the 2018 agreement between the Vatican and China concerning the appointment of bishops, which was renewed in 2020 and remains a cornerstone of the ongoing dialogue. The agreement, which was intended to unify the state-sanctioned Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association and the underground church loyal to the Vatican, is seen as a crucial step towards normalizing relations, despite ongoing challenges and criticisms from various quarters.

As negotiations continue, the international community watches closely, understanding that the outcomes of these talks could have significant implications, not only for the Catholic Church in China but also for broader global diplomatic relationships.