Abstract

The 2018 Agreement signed by the Holy See and the People’s Republic of China regarding the appointment of bishops represents a development in relations between the two state entities after decades of incommunicability. The realist policy pursued by Francis’ pontificate has succeeded in developing a fragile with local authorities. The long-term goal is the establishment of diplomatic relations, even if the road is full of obstacles: the protection of religious freedom, U.S. interests in the area and the Taiwan issue, which the Holy See officially recognizes.