The New Nation - Internet Edition

AP, Vatican City

The Vatican and its high-ranking clergy in China want to have a "respectful and constructive" dialogue with Beijing authorities over the role of the Catholic church there, the Vatican said Thursday. The call came this week during a meeting of a special commission on China created by Pope Benedict XVI. Among the participants at the meeting was Hong Kong Cardinal Joseph Zen, an outspoken champion of religious freedom who at times has drawn the ire of Beijing authorities. The Vatican said in a statement that participants focused on issues concerning the life of the Catholic Church in China. The pope, who has made improving relations with China a priority, is keen to restore diplomatic relations with Beijing. Beijing broke ties with the Vatican in 1951 after the communists took power in China.

Millions of Chinese belong to unofficial congregations that are loyal to the pope and risk harassment. The pope sent a letter to Catholics in China last year, praising the underground church but also urging reconciliation with the official church.