In a statement issued by the Holy See, the Vatican expressed 'surprise and bitterness' that China has placed Bishop Peng Weizhao of the diocese of Yujiang as the auxiliary of a diocese that is not recognized by Rome.
The Holy See says this decision is not in line with the agreement signed in 2018 and it hopes that 'similar episodes will not be repeated.' The statement says the Vatican is awaiting clarification. They are also reaching out to China by expressing their 'full availability' to continue what they define as 'respectful dialogue.'
The 2018 agreement is not public but the central focus is the appointment of bishops. The goal is that neither the Vatican nor China can make unilateral decisions regarding this office.
JRB
TR: KG
