U.S. backs Vatican’s efforts in China – AP

From the AP, via the Seattle Post-Intelligencer:

The U.S. ambassador to the Holy See said Monday that supporting the Vatican’s push for greater religious freedom in China was a priority.

Ambassador Francis Rooney issued a statement a day after President Bush told Chinese leaders in Beijing to expand religious, political and social liberties. Bush also urged the leadership to invite Vatican officials to China discuss religious freedom.