Exclusive: Pope says China talks going well, dialogue worth the risk

Pope Francis listens to reporter question during an exclusive interview with Reuters at the Vatican June 17, 2018. Vatican Media/Handout via REUTERS

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis has voiced optimism for improved ties between the Vatican and China, rejecting criticism that the Holy See may be selling out Catholics to Beijing's communist government.

The Vatican and China are in advanced talks to resolve a dispute over the appointment of bishops in China, one of the biggest obstacles to resuming diplomatic ties that were cut almost 70 years ago.