The Chinese government on Thursday welcomed Pope Leo XIV’s appointment of a new bishop in China, calling it a sign of progress in ongoing dialogue between Beijing and the Holy See.
“China is willing to work together with the Vatican to promote the continuous improvement of China-Vatican relations,” said foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian during a regular press briefing on June 12.
“This appointment has enhanced understanding and mutual trust through constructive dialogue,” he added.
The statement came after the Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo XIV had named Joseph Lin Yuntuan as Auxiliary Bishop of Fuzhou on June 5, less than a month into his pontificate.
The Holy See’s press office earlier said it was “satisfied” with the bishop’s “recognition of the civil effects and the taking possession of the Office,” according to a report by Fides News Agency.
The installation ceremony took place on June 11, the feast of St. Barnabas, and was led by Bishop Vincent Zhan Silu of Mindong, who had joined the Synod of Bishops in Rome last October.
A Mass followed, presided over by Bishop Joseph Cai Bingrui of Fuzhou, and concelebrated by bishops from across Fujian province—including Bishops Lin Yuntang and Wu Yishun of Minbei—alongside around 80 priests and more than 200 nuns and lay faithful.
Lin Jian noted that China and the Vatican “have maintained communication and enhanced understanding and mutual trust through constructive dialogue” in recent years.
The appointment marks the first Chinese episcopal nomination under Pope Leo XIV and comes amid cautious optimism from Beijing toward the American-born pontiff.
Relations between China and the United States remain strained, but Chinese officials have shown signs of engagement with the new pope.
Following Pope Leo XIV’s election in April, the Chinese foreign ministry issued an unusually lengthy statement conveying congratulations and expressing hope for continued constructive dialogue with the Vatican, deeper engagement on global issues, and strengthened bilateral relations aimed at promoting peace and development.
The bishop’s appointment and its recognition by both sides is seen as a meaningful gesture in the complex and often delicate relationship between Beijing and the Vatican, particularly on the issue of episcopal nominations in China.
