China confirms Vatican's participation in Beijing garden expo

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, president of the Pontifical Council for Culture will take part in relevant activities at the 2019 Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition.

Aerial view of the Zhejiang Park at the 2019 Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition.[Photo: IC]

The event is expected to last from April 29 to October 7, with the theme of "Live Green, Live Better".

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang said so far, over 110 countries and organizations have applied for their participation in the expo.

China expects to boost green development through this event with all participants, noted Lu.

On Tuesday, Ravasi told reporters that the Vatican will take part in the international horticultural expo in Beijing, and will have a pavilion there.

China and the Vatican have no official diplomatic ties.

Last September, the two sides reached a provisional agreement on the appointment of bishops in China.

Lu said ever since then, China and the Vatican have been continuing to talk actively and working hard to improve relations.