Taipei-based papal representative Paul Russell said Thursday that the Vatican values its diplomatic relations with the Republic of China on Taiwan. Russell was speaking at a ceremony marking the second anniversary of the ministry of Pope Francis. Taiwan’s Vice Foreign Minister Vanessa Shih was in attendance at the event.
Russell said that the Vatican and Taiwan share the common values of religious freedom and caring for the underprivileged. He said the Vatican’s foreign policy is designed to help different countries coexist with each other.
Russell said Shih’s presence at the event is an indication of Taiwan’s respect for the Vatican. Russell said that the Vatican has the same respect for Taiwan.
Meanwhile, Shih said that the Pope’s biggest influence is his ethics and authority. She said the Pope is amiable, warm and humorous, characteristics that have won him the title “The People’s Pope”.
Shih said that 2015 marks 73 years since the establishment of relations with the Vatican. She said Taiwan will continue to value democratic freedoms and human rights in partnership with the Vatican.