The Vatican said on Saturday that it is hopeful of improving ties with China after decades of mistrust and tension, following Beijing's decision to sever diplomatic ties with the Holy See in 1951.

Reuters reported that Pope Francis and his secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, are upbeat about restoring diplomatic ties with Beijing.

Like Us on Facebook

"There is much hope and expectation that there will be new developments and a new season in relations between the Holy Sea and China," Parolin said in a speech in Italy. "[This] will benefit not just Catholics in the land of Confucius, but the whole country, which boasts one of the greatest civilizations on the planet."

The restoration of diplomatic ties would benefit both the Vatican and China. For Vatican, good ties with China would offer the prospect of improving the plight of the Christian community in mainland China. For China, improving ties with the Holy See would help to soften the international community's stance on China's human right issues.

Taiwan Remains Alert Amid Fresh Thaw Between China and Vatican        

The Vatican's latest overtures towards China comes barely a few days before Taiwan's Vice President Chen Chien-jen is scheduled to embark on a week-long visit to the Holy City. Chen is visiting Vatican to attend a host of religious functions.

Taiwan is reportedly apprehensive about the recent closeness between the Holy See and China. The Vatican is the only Western country that does not have official ties with China, while it is one of the 22 countries and the only European countries that officially recognizes Taiwan.

TagsVatican, Vatican and China, Vatican and Taiwan, Holy See, china