Pope Francis has reportedly refused to meet with Mike Pompeo to discuss a controversial accord between the Vatican and China, as the US Secretary of State visits Rome on Tuesday to drive home his warning that it endangers the “moral authority” of the Church. The details of the deal have never been made public, but it gave the Vatican a say in the appointment of Catholic bishops in China. Pope Francis also recognised eight bishops that had been appointed by Beijing without his approval.
- Vatican official accuses Trump administration of exploiting pope.
- The extension to the Vatican-China deal is expected to be signed next month.
