Vatican city: Anthony Ho, the new ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the Holy See, presented his Letter of Credence to Pope Leo XIV, officially commencing his diplomatic role. Ho succeeds Matthew Lee, who retired and departed from the Vatican in May.

According to Focus Taiwan, upon presenting his credentials, Ho conveyed warm greetings to the pope from Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, Premier Cho Jung-tai, and Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung. As a practicing Catholic, Ho also delivered the prayers of Taiwan’s Catholics to the newly appointed pope.

Ho emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to religious freedom and its proactive role in global humanitarian efforts, mentioning Taiwan’s aid during natural disasters, health crises, and military conflicts. He recounted an instance during the COVID-19 pandemic when Taiwan donated intubation equipment to Peru. This donation was facilitated by Pan Men-an, who is now the Presidential Office secretary-general, and was received by the then Bishop of Chiclayo, now Pope Leo XIV. This event, Ho suggested, formed a significant bond between the pope and Taiwan.

Pope Leo XIV expressed his appreciation for Taiwan’s generosity, particularly during the global health crisis, and recognized Taiwan’s support for Catholic churches. He assured Ho of his prayers for peace in Taiwan.

The new ambassador pledged to continue fostering collaboration with the Vatican, focusing on humanitarian aid and promoting the message “Deus caritas est,” or God is love. The Holy See remains Taiwan’s only formal diplomatic ally in Europe, with ties dating back to 1942.

The relationship between the Vatican and Beijing has faced challenges since a 2018 agreement on the appointment of Chinese bishops, which was extended for a third time in late 2024. Tensions arose when Beijing unilaterally appointed bishops, contradicting the terms of the agreement.