Beijing - The Chinese Prime Minister, Mr Zhu Rongji, has confirmed for the first time that negotiations are under way between Beijing and the Vatican over establishing diplomatic relations and arranging for a papal visit to China, Conor O'Clery writes.
In an interview with Italian correspondents on the eve of a trip to Italy, Mr Zhu said: "Our laws guarantee and protect the freedom of faith, but you cannot use this to interfere in our internal politics. Once we sort out this problem, the Pope will come." He also stressed that the Vatican would have to sever ties with Taiwan, and appeared confident that the Catholic Church was ready to take the step.
The sticking point in bilateral talks is the designation of bishops. Progress had also been registered in this area with the appointment of a bishop in Dagu, Shandong province, last month, who was endorsed by both sides.