In a significant diplomatic moment, Former Vice President Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁) represented Taiwan at the inaugural mass of Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, May 17, 2025, in Vatican City. Acting as President Lai Ching-te’s special envoy, Chen joined over 100 world leaders and 250,000 attendees in St. Peter’s Square to witness the historic installation of the first American pope and the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.
The event was attended by key international leaders including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, highlighting the global political and religious weight of the papal transition.
Before the event, Chen shared that he had been entrusted with a clear mission from President Lai: to congratulate Pope Leo XIV and reaffirm Taiwan’s commitment to diplomatic and humanitarian collaboration with the Vatican.
“President Lai hopes diplomatic relations will continue to strengthen as we work together for world peace, social justice, and care for the underprivileged,” said Chen.
🙏 Prayer, Hope, and an Invitation
Chen also participated in a prayer mass for Taiwan’s peace and prosperity on Saturday and expressed the island’s continued hope for a papal visit—a dream that remains elusive. Although Chen extended a similar invitation to Pope Francis in 2018, it was declined, reflecting the Vatican’s sensitive diplomatic balancing act, particularly with China.
🏛️ Taiwan’s Last Diplomatic Stand in Europe
The Holy See remains Taiwan’s only diplomatic ally in Europe, with ties that date back to 1942 when the ROC government was still on the mainland. These ties have endured despite increasing engagement between the Vatican and Beijing, particularly after a 2018 agreement that allows the Chinese Communist Party and the Holy See to co-appoint bishops—a deal Taiwan sees with cautious skepticism.
The renewed bishop appointment agreement in 2024, despite China’s violations of the original terms, indicates Beijing’s growing influence and raises questions about Taiwan’s long-term standing with the Holy See.
🧭 Why Chen, Not Lai?
Neither the Presidential Office nor the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has disclosed why President Lai did not attend the mass personally. However, Chen’s unique Vatican credentials may have influenced the decision:
- Academician of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences (2021)
- Knight of the Pontifical Equestrian Order of St. Gregory the Great (2013)
- Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (2010)
Such honors not only reflect Taiwan’s long-term investment in Vatican diplomacy but also emphasize Chen’s individual ties to the Holy See—potentially more symbolic in the eyes of the Church.
🇻🇦 Broader Implications for Taiwan
President Lai’s decision to delegate this critical engagement sends a dual message:
- Taiwan remains committed to its only European ally in a time of increasing global isolation due to China’s pressure.
- Soft diplomacy and religious outreach remain at the heart of Taiwan’s international strategy where formal alliances are few.
Chen’s presence not only underscores Taiwan’s gratitude and respect but also functions as a strategic nudge toward deepening relations—especially at a time when the Holy See faces internal questions over its China policy.
🤝 Diplomatic Resilience
In remarks made at a banquet with Taiwanese clergy, Deputy Foreign Minister François Wu stated:
“Taiwan’s ties with the Holy See have withstood numerous challenges but continue to thrive.”
This echoes Taiwan’s long-standing diplomatic theme: resilience amid pressure. The Vatican remains a critical player in Taiwan’s fight for international recognition—not just religiously, but geopolitically.
❓ FAQs
Who is Pope Leo XIV?
Pope Leo XIV is the newly elected head of the Catholic Church, succeeding Pope Francis. He is the first pope from the United States and was elected on May 8, 2025.
Why did Taiwan send Former VP Chen instead of President Lai?
The government has not provided a specific reason. However, Chen has deep personal ties with the Vatican and has previously represented Taiwan at key papal events.
What is the significance of Taiwan–Vatican relations?
The Vatican is Taiwan’s only European diplomatic ally and represents a critical religious and geopolitical relationship for Taipei.
Has any pope ever visited Taiwan?
No, despite multiple invitations, including one extended to Pope Francis in 2018, no pope has ever visited Taiwan.
What challenges do Taiwan–Vatican relations face?
The Vatican’s warming ties with Beijing, particularly over bishop appointments, pose a challenge to its longstanding diplomatic relationship with Taiwan.
