Pope Leo XIV addressed one of the most complex geopolitical and ecclesiastical challenges facing the Holy See: its relationship with China.
Newsroom (19/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) In a candid exchange with Crux Now, Pope Leo XIV addressed one of the most complex geopolitical and ecclesiastical challenges facing the Holy See: its relationship with China. The pontiff, expressed a cautious yet open approach to engaging with the world’s most populous nation, signaling continuity with the Vatican’s long-standing Ostpolitik strategy while underscoring the need for nuanced dialogue to navigate the delicate balance between cultural respect, political realities, and the pastoral needs of Chinese Catholics.
When asked about his approach to China, Pope Leo XIV demurred on outlining a definitive strategy, acknowledging the complexity of the issue and his relative inexperience compared to his predecessors. “No. I would say that in the short term, I will continue the policy that the Holy See has followed for some years now, and it’s been several predecessors,” he said. “I in no way pretend to be wiser or more experienced than all those who have come before me.”
The Ostpolitik approach, a term borrowed from Cold War-era diplomacy, refers to the Vatican’s pragmatic strategy of engaging with governments—often authoritarian—to secure space for the Church’s mission, even at the cost of compromises. Initiated under Pope Paul VI and refined by subsequent popes, this policy has shaped the Holy See’s delicate negotiations with China, particularly regarding the appointment of bishops and the status of the underground Catholic Church loyal to Rome.
Pope Leo XIV’s remarks reflect a deep awareness of the historical weight of this approach. He noted that he is “taking that into consideration,” alongside personal experiences with Chinese government officials, religious leaders, and laypeople. “I’m trying to get a clearer understanding of how the Church can continue the Church’s mission, respecting both culture and political issues that have obviously great importance,” he said.
Central to the pontiff’s reflections is the plight of Chinese Catholics, particularly those in the underground Church who have faced decades of oppression for their fidelity to the Vatican. “I’m also in ongoing dialogue with a number of people, Chinese, on both sides of some of the issues that are there,” he said, emphasizing a commitment to understanding the lived realities of those who have endured “oppression or difficulty in living their faith freely, and without choosing sides.”
The Vatican’s engagement with China has been a lightning rod for criticism, particularly since the 2018 provisional agreement on bishop appointments between the Holy See and Beijing. While the agreement—renewed in 2020, 2022, and 2024—aimed to unify the state-sanctioned Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association and the underground Church, it has drawn scrutiny from some quarters for allegedly compromising the Church’s autonomy. Critics, including some Chinese Catholics and international observers, argue that the deal has not alleviated restrictions on religious freedom, while supporters view it as a necessary step toward dialogue in a complex political landscape.
Pope Leo XIV’s remarks suggest he is treading carefully, wary of overpromising or committing to a rigid course of action early in his pontificate. “It’s a very difficult situation,” he acknowledged. “In the long term, I don’t pretend to say this is what I will and will not do.” Instead, he highlighted ongoing discussions “at several levels” as a cornerstone of his approach, indicating a deliberative process informed by consultation and discernment.
The pontiff’s emphasis on dialogue aligns with his broader vision of a Church that listens and engages with the world’s complexities. His reference to “respecting both culture and political issues” points to an awareness of China’s unique historical and social context, where the Communist Party maintains tight control over religious activities. At the same time, his commitment to Chinese Catholics underscores the Vatican’s enduring pastoral responsibility to a community that has often felt marginalized.
As global attention remains fixed on China’s growing influence, Pope Leo XIV’s approach will be closely watched by Catholics and geopolitically minded observers alike. For now, the pontiff appears content to build on the foundation laid by his predecessors, prioritizing dialogue and caution as he navigates one of the most intricate challenges of his young papacy.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Crux Now
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