Lin Jian, the spokesman for China’s foreign ministry, welcomed Pope Leo’s appointment of Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Lin Yuntuan of Fuzhou.
Newsroom, June 13, 2025, Gaudium Press – In a significant step toward fostering diplomatic relations, China has expressed optimism about its ongoing dialogue with the Vatican following the appointment of Joseph Lin Yuntuan as Auxiliary Bishop of Fuzhou. During a regular news briefing on Thursday, June 12, 2025, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized China’s commitment to improving relations with the Holy See. “China is willing to work together with the Vatican to promote the continuous improvement of China-Vatican relations,” Lin stated, noting that the appointment has “enhanced understanding and mutual trust through constructive dialogue.”
The appointment, announced by Pope Leo XIV on June 5, 2025, marks the first episcopal appointment of a Chinese bishop under his pontificate, which began less than a month ago. The official installation ceremony took place on June 11, 2025, coinciding with the feast of the Apostle Barnabas.
The ceremony was presided over by Bishop Vincent Zhan Silu of Mindong, who participated in the Synod of Bishops Assembly in Rome in October 2024. A Holy Mass followed, led by Bishop Joseph Cai Bingrui of Fuzhou, with participation from Bishops Lin Yuntang and Wu Yishun of Minbei, alongside approximately 80 priests, 200 nuns, and laypeople from Fujian Province dioceses.
Matteo Bruni, Director of the Vatican Press Office, expressed satisfaction with the appointment, highlighting the “recognition of the civil effects and the taking possession of the Office” of Bishop Lin Yuntuan. This development underscores the ongoing communication between Beijing and the Holy See, which has grown stronger in recent years. Lin Jian noted that both sides have “maintained communication and enhanced understanding and mutual trust” through constructive exchanges.
The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, has introduced a new dynamic to China-Vatican relations, especially amid complex geopolitical tensions between China and the United States. Following Pope Leo XIV’s election, Lin Jian extended congratulations on behalf of China, stating, “China congratulates Cardinal Robert Prevost on his election as the new Pope. We hope that, under his leadership, the Vatican will continue to engage in constructive dialogue with China, engage in in-depth communication on international issues of common concern, jointly promote the continued improvement of China-Vatican relations, and contribute to peace, stability, development, and prosperity in the world.”
This historic appointment and the positive rhetoric from both sides signal a cautious but promising continuation of dialogue between China and the Vatican, potentially paving the way for further cooperation on global issues.
Raju Hasmukh with Sources:
Chinese Foreign Ministry Briefing, June 12, 2025.
Vatican Press Office Statement, June 11, 2025.
Synod of Bishops Assembly Records, October 2024.