Taiwan’s government expressed profound sorrow over the death of Pope Francis on Monday, marking the end of an era defined by compassion, humility, and a complex web of global diplomacy. The late pope passed away at the age of 88 at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, early Monday morning (Rome time), following a prolonged illness related to bronchitis. As one of the few nations with formal diplomatic ties to the Vatican, Taiwan’s tribute was both heartfelt and geopolitically significant.
🇻🇦 Taiwan’s Immediate Response to Pope Francis’ Death
Following the announcement of Pope Francis’ passing, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) instructed Taiwan’s embassy to the Holy See to deliver official condolences. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) confirmed that Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung also personally conveyed Taiwan’s sympathies to the Apostolic Nunciature in Taipei.
In recognition of the late pontiff’s global influence and Taiwan’s close relationship with the Vatican, President Lai will appoint a high-ranking special envoy to attend the funeral in Rome, and a memorial mass will be held in Taipei by the Vatican’s representative office.
🙏 Pope Francis and Taiwan: A Decade of Quiet but Meaningful Engagement
During his papacy from 2013 to 2025, Pope Francis maintained a respectful and cooperative relationship with Taiwan. Although he never visited the island, his gestures spoke volumes:
- He offered public prayers for Taiwan following natural disasters, including the 2024 Hualien earthquake.
- He appointed Taiwanese clergy to cardinal positions—signaling recognition of Taiwan’s Catholic community.
- Several Taiwanese dignitaries, including former Vice President Chen Chien-jen, met with him at the Vatican during his tenure.
While Pope Francis is often credited with warming ties with Beijing, he did not sideline Taiwan. Instead, he delicately balanced diplomacy with pastoral care—a difficult task given the geopolitical pressure surrounding Vatican-China relations.
⚖️ Diplomatic Context: Taiwan, the Holy See, and a Shifting Religious Landscape
The Holy See remains Taiwan’s only diplomatic ally in Europe, having established formal ties with the Republic of China (ROC) in 1942. Despite global pressure, especially from Beijing, the Vatican has maintained its official recognition of Taiwan, although not without signs of shifting diplomacy.
In 2018, the Vatican signed a provisional agreement with Beijing on the appointment of bishops, which was renewed for the third time in late 2024. However, tensions have surfaced after China violated the deal by unilaterally appointing bishops—highlighting the fragility of the Vatican’s entente with the Chinese Communist Party.
For Taiwan, Pope Francis’ death marks a moment of uncertainty and opportunity. While the Vatican has remained neutral in the cross-strait conflict, a change in papal leadership may signal a new direction—one that could either strengthen or weaken diplomatic ties with Taipei.
🇹🇼 Domestic Impact: More Than Symbolism
The pope’s death and Taiwan’s response are not merely symbolic. They reaffirm Taiwan’s commitment to global humanitarian values and multilateral diplomacy rooted in shared spiritual traditions. Taiwan’s flying of national flags at half-mast for two days illustrates the solemn respect held for the late pontiff.
Moreover, Taiwan continues to collaborate with the Holy See on humanitarian aid projects, refugee relief, and health missions. These collaborations extend Taiwan’s soft power and demonstrate that its influence isn’t confined to formal political recognition.
🔍 FAQs
Why is the Holy See important to Taiwan diplomatically?
The Vatican is Taiwan’s only official ally in Europe and one of only 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taipei. It offers Taiwan rare access to international diplomacy in the West.
What role did Pope Francis play in Taiwan-Vatican relations?
Pope Francis upheld respectful communication with Taiwan, welcomed its officials, and supported humanitarian collaborations while navigating delicate ties with China.
What happens now with Vatican-Taiwan relations?
With Pope Francis’ passing, the future of Taiwan-Vatican relations may hinge on the next pope’s stance toward Beijing and willingness to maintain Taiwan’s official recognition.
How is Taiwan honoring Pope Francis?
Taiwan is sending a special envoy to attend his funeral, holding a memorial mass, flying flags at half-mast, and reaffirming cooperation on humanitarian values.
Did Pope Francis ever visit Taiwan?
No, Pope Francis did not visit Taiwan, but he received several Taiwanese officials at the Vatican and offered support during national tragedies.
