Vatican appoints first Chinese bishop under 2018 deal, aiming to unify China's Catholic population.

Pope Leo XIV has appointed the first Chinese bishop under a 2018 agreement between the Vatican and Beijing, continuing a policy initiated by Pope Francis. The appointment of Bishop Joseph Lin Yuntuan was recognized by Chinese authorities, marking a step towards unifying China's divided Catholic population. Critics argue the deal gives too much power to China, but the Vatican defends it as the best option for greater religious freedom in the country.