Pope Francis has been under pressure to withdraw from the agreement. Photo: AFP
Pope Francis has been under pressure to withdraw from the agreement. Photo: AFP

China and the Vatican renew controversial bishops deal after ‘good start’

  • Agreement was hailed as a breakthrough when it was signed two years ago, but critics say it has done little to improve relations
  • Holy See says initial results ‘may not seem to be that great’ and acknowledges there are ‘still many situations causing serious suffering’ in China