This paper analyses the diplomatic triangle between the Holy See, China and Taiwan. It deals with the three actors’ respective international positions, diplomatic strategies, and political developments. Based upon these, it attempts to make estimates on how these will have future implications especially for Taiwan. The Holy See aims to have a world-wide connection to and network with all Catholic believers and sees itself as the protector of the same in unstable conditions. As China has a substantial number of Catholic believers and a restrictive system regarding religious freedom, the Holy See strives to establish formal diplomatic relations with Beijing. At the same time the two sides have a number of conflicting perspectives preventing the normalization of their relations so far. Among those, the question on how bishops shall be appointed is the major one still to be resolved. Taiwan, on the other hand, offers a friendlier environment to the Holy See and Catholic religion which enabled it to become the centre of Catholic education for Chinese-speaking followers. Having substantial cultural, educational, and social ties with Taiwan, the Holy See hopes to retain those even if an event of a diplomatic switch from Taipei to Beijing occurs. Taiwan has been in a position of increasing international isolation since it lost its membership at the United Nations and has since then adapted its diplomatic strategy to a point, where it is experienced and skilled in navigating its international relations despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties. Nonetheless, ceasing official, diplomatic ties with the Holy See as its last diplomatic outpost on the European continent would still be a major loss to Taiwan. Thus, the relations between the Holy See, China and Taiwan are an interrelated triangle between three very different players.
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