Officials from Vatican and China are likely to meet in Rome by month-end to finalize a deal on the ordination of bishops in the mainland.

The issue is reportedly a contagious one and its resolution is expected to bring a thaw in strained relationship between Beijing and the Holy See.

Sources close to Vatican told Reuters that China has agreed to ordain at least two new bishops before the year ends. A person close to the Chinese leadership also confirmed the reports about the ordination.

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China traditionally has opposed Rome's right to ordain Chinese bishops, mainly because of the difficult relationship it shared with Vatican.  

Experts suggest that the breakthrough in the deal will help Vatican in improving the plight of the Christian community in China and also in preventing possible spilt within the community.

The Chinese Christian community is currently divided between the followers of state-sanctioned Catholic hierarchy and an "underground" community that solemnly swears to the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church.

A deal "would definitely remove the risk of a schism (within the Church in China), which for 60 years has been a potential threat," said Elisa Giunipero, a researcher at the Catholic University of Milan. She has already conducted a study on the history of the Catholic Church in China for 20 years.

Vatican recently has been making continuous efforts to improve its ties with China. In August, Pope Francis and his secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, said that they are upbeat about restoring diplomatic relationship with China.

However, any effort to mend ties with China would mean that Holy See would have to rethink about its close relationship with Taiwan. Vatican is among the 22 countries, and the only country in entire Europe, that officially recognizes Taiwan.

Recently, Taiwan Vice President paid a visit to Vatican to ensure that Holy See keeps its support intact amid improving ties with China.

TagsChina and Vatican, china, Vatican, Ordination Bishop Deal