February 5, 2018

Western media outlets have been intensively covering progress in Sino-Vatican negotiations, with Pope Francis making substantive concessions to China on bishop appointments. "A framework accord between the Vatican and China on the appointment of bishops is ready and could be signed in a few months in what would be an historic breakthrough in relations," Reuters reported.

The Taiwan authority appears alarmed at the news. Speculations on the establishment of China-Vatican diplomatic ties have started to spread. Western media and certain radical religious groups opposed to enhanced Sino-Vatican ties are anxious to influence ensuing Beijing-Holy See negotiations. This suggests that at least the Taiwan administration and some Westerners truly believe that the establishment of Sino-Vatican diplomatic relations is on the cards.

The Vatican is the only "ally" to Taiwan in Europe, and, given the Holy See's special appeal, it would be a heavy blow to the Democratic Progressive Party if the Vatican severed ties with Taiwan. 

Read more:

http://www.globaltimes.cn/content/1088345.shtml