The recent renewal of the groundbreaking China-Vatican Provisional Agreement on the appointment of bishops marks a milestone in global diplomacy. Far more than a simple administrative measure, this extension is a powerful symbol of how China, a secular state with deep-rooted political traditions in the East, and the Vatican, a spiritual authority with centuries-old influence in the West, can find common ground through respectful dialogue.

The Vatican has hailed it as a result of “respectful and constructive dialogue” — a rare achievement in today’s fractured global environment. This accord stands as a testament to China’s principled and pragmatic diplomacy that values dialogue, collaboration and innovation.

The renewal of this historic agreement reflects the diplomatic ingenuity of the “Vatican party” and the “Chinese party”. Despite their seemingly irreconcilable differences, they have bridged an East-West divide with mutual respect and pragmatic cooperation. China, a secular and sovereign state of 1.4 billion people, and the Vatican, a religious epicenter of over a billion Catholics, have found a way to cooperate on the appointment of Catholic bishops in China.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has shown that he is a leader capable of consolidating national stability while simultaneously promoting global engagement, balancing internal cohesion and external diplomacy. The accord shows the Chinese leadership’s forward-looking mindset, a remarkable adaptability in responding to the evolving dynamics of international relations. This strategic engagement with the Vatican also improves China’s soft power by showcasing its respect for religious pluralism and willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

Pope Francis, the first Jesuit pope in the history of the Catholic Church, carries forward the legacy of Matteo Ricci, a 16th-century Italian Jesuit who fostered one of the earliest successful cultural exchanges between China and the West. Like Ricci, who won the trust of the Ming Dynasty’s (1368-1644) imperial court, Pope Francis has approached China with high intellect and a spirit of constructive engagement. His noble efforts mirror Ricci’s work, showcasing the Jesuits’ longstanding commitment to East-West dialogue and bridging cultural and religious divides.

Beyond religious concerns, this accord is a key diplomatic victory that could promote global stability. One high point in the China-Vatican dialogue is the continuing high-level diplomatic discussions concerning both states’ wish to see an end to war between Ukraine and Russia, with Beijing reiterating a six-point peace plan proposed by China and the Catholic-majority nation Brazil.  

China’s decision to engage in negotiations with the Vatican also reflects its broader diplomatic strategy of promoting peaceful coexistence. At a time when China faces criticism from certain Western narratives, the accord provides an opportunity for Beijing to demonstrate its readiness for dialogue with institutions historically associated with the West. This is a crucial step in softening tensions and countering biased stereotypes that often frame China in a negative light.

The renewal of the China-Vatican agreement on the appointment of bishops is a triumph of diplomacy, offering the world an inspiring example of how dialogue and cooperation can resolve deeply entrenched differences

The China-Vatican agreement strikes a good balance between religious freedom and state sovereignty. It allows the Vatican to maintain spiritual oversight while respecting China’s inalienable governance. This model offers a pragmatic solution to historically contentious issues, focusing on compromise and mutual respect.

The agreement enhances East-West understanding. At a time when China is frequently viewed with a lack of understanding and with suspicion by the West, the Vatican’s decision to engage China on equal terms sends a powerful message: Meaningful dialogue can lead to positive outcomes, even between civilizations with vastly different worldviews.

Pope Francis, a staunch advocate for a multipolar world, believes in a global order where no single power dominates. The China-Vatican accord reflects this vision, showing that constructive engagement with China is not only possible but essential. This diplomacy challenges the outdated binary of East versus West, promoting a better world where collaboration and mutual respect transcend cultural and ideological boundaries.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this agreement is its respect for both parties’ sovereignty. China, wary of foreign interference due to its many negative historical experiences with colonialism, and the Vatican, a sovereign, independent territory, have crafted an accord that preserves their respective authorities while allowing for meaningful collaboration. This diplomatic success emphasizes that respect for sovereignty is crucial in international relations.

The accord demonstrates that diverse political and cultural systems can coexist and cooperate. For China, the agreement underscores its ability to engage with international institutions without compromising its core principles. For the Vatican, it reinforces its commitment to pastoral care for Catholics within the boundaries set by sovereign states.

The renewal of the China-Vatican agreement on the appointment of bishops is a triumph of diplomacy, offering the world an inspiring example of how dialogue and cooperation can resolve deeply entrenched differences. In a world often dominated by chaotic conflict and division, this accord stands as a wellspring of hope for peace and understanding. Through the progressive and visionary leadership of both President Xi and Pope Francis, this agreement has shown that diplomacy rooted in sincere dialogue and mutual respect can pave the way for global harmony.

The author is an award-winning columnist of Philippine Star and Abante, an economics and politics analyst, a college teacher, and a moderator of the Pandesal Forum.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.