China's foreign ministry expressed condolences a day after the death of Pope Francis, underlining its desire to improve relations with the Vatican despite historical tensions

China's foreign ministry has sent condolences on the death of Pope Francis, highlighting recent progress in relations with the Vatican despite historic tensions over the appointment of bishops. The 2018 agreement allowed China to participate in the appointment of bishops, but sparked criticism from human rights organizations and religious leaders such as Cardinal Joseph Zen. While some Church officials see the agreement as necessary, others see it as a betrayal of Catholic values.