Vatican City (AsiaNews) - The Holy See applauds the "recent positive developments" in relations between Taiwan and China. Benedict XVI today greeted the new ambassador of Taiwan to the Vatican, Wang Larry Yu-yuan, who came to present his letters of credence.

The pope made no other direct reference to Beijing, nor was it to be expected, considering the context, but some of his remarks seem to be "addressed" to the Chinese government. "Frank and constructive dialogue is also the key to the resolution of the conflicts that threaten the stability of our world. In this regard, the Holy See welcomes the recent positive developments in relations between Taiwan and mainland China." And "the Catholic Church," he continued, "is eager to promote peaceful solutions to disputes of whatever kind, 'giving attention and encouragement to even the faintest sign of dialogue or desire for reconciliation'."

Benedict XVI then observed that "there is great religious vitality and capacity for renewal among the peoples of Asia. Hence the ground is particularly fertile for interreligious dialogue to take root and grow." Like in Taiwan, where the "firm commitment to freedom of religion has made it possible for the Church to carry out her mission of love and service, and to express herself openly through worship and the proclamation of the Gospel. On behalf of all the Catholics in Taiwan, I would like to express my appreciation of this freedom that the Church enjoys."

Ambassador Yu-yuan was born was born on February 4, 1947. He is married, with two daughters.

(Photo: CPP)