News: China pope reaction reflects tensions with Vatican

[MikeLigalig.com]

China pope reaction reflects tensions with Vatican

BEIJING?Beijing on Monday called for Pope Benedict XVI's successor not to interfere in China's internal affairs, highlighting enduring tensions with the Vatican after the pontiff's surprise resignation.

 

Asked about the pope's decision to step down, which stunned the world when it was announced last Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said the Vatican "should not interfere in China's internal affairs".

 

The phrase is often a reference to perceived challenges to the authority of the ruling Communist Party, and China and the Vatican have clashed over issues including the ordination of priests and who should be the final arbiter of church affair...Keep on reading: China pope reaction reflects tensions with Vatican

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