Channels open between Beijing and the Vatican

Assessment comes as white paper details protection of religious belief

China and the Vatican have an open and effective channel to hold discussions and exchange views, which holds the promise of more constructive dialogue to improve ties, senior religious affairs officials said on Tuesday.

"Improving ties between China and the Vatican is the desire of both sides. China has made solid efforts to improve the relationship with the Vatican," Chen Zongrong, deputy director of the former State Administration of Religious Affairs, said on Tuesday.