The letter from Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen to Pope Francis argues that harmonious relations with Beijing can only be achieved by respecting the Taiwanese people’s demand on sovereignty and freedom and that war between Taiwan and China is not an option.

Taiwan, which is claimed by China, has only one diplomatic ally in Europe: the Vatican. Taipei has followed Pope Francis’ efforts to normalize relations with China with alarm. Only 14 nations have formal relations with the democratically run island, partly as a result of Chinese pressure.

The letter from Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen to Pope Francis argues that harmonious relations with Beijing can only be achieved by respecting the Taiwanese people’s demand on sovereignty and freedom and that war between Taiwan and China is not an option.

Taiwan, which is claimed by China, has only one diplomatic ally in Europe: the Vatican. Taipei has followed Pope Francis’ efforts to normalize relations with China with alarm. Only 14 nations have formal relations with the democratically run island, partly as a result of Chinese pressure.