Vatican makes offer to China

The Vatican said it was willing to end relations with Taiwan and return its embassy to Beijing provided China respects religious freedom and treats the Holy See fairly, Reuters reported. Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Vatican secretary of state, said representatives of Pope Benedict were ready to start dialogue with Beijing at any time. China and the Vatican have had no diplomatic ties since 1951, although the Vatican believes it has about eight million followers in the country who worship at the "underground church".